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Understanding the Proposed Changes by Lambeth Council on HMOs
In recent months, Lambeth Council has become increasingly attentive to community concerns and is taking decisive steps towards addressing potential issues associated with the spread of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across certain areas. The key focus areas are the wards of Streatham Common & Vale and Streatham St Leonard’s, highlighting an approach designed to maintain the character and integrity of these communities. A public consultation was initiated to explore the introduction of more stringent planning controls for smaller HMOs, which currently do not require detailed planning permission under the existing regulations (Lambeth Council, 2023).
Lambeth Council’s proposal arises in direct response to multiple complaints from local residents. Feedback emphasises a growing discontent with the proliferation of HMOs, citing concerns over anti-social behaviour and the reduction of available family homes in the neighbourhood. This concern further extends to the erosion of the distinct character that has long defined these areas, with many residents yearning for a community-oriented living environment (Lambeth Council, 2023).
The Role of Article 4 Direction in Controlling HMO Developments
Currently, the transformation of properties into smaller HMOs is facilitated by permitted development rights, a legislative change enacted in 2010 that allows landlords to bypass the traditional planning permission process (Lambeth Council, 2023). Recognising the potential gap in regulatory oversight, Lambeth Council hopes to address this through the introduction of an Article 4 Direction. This Direction would effectively rescind the Class L(b) permitted development right, necessitating planning permission for housing conversions into small HMOs (Lambeth Council, 2023).
The consultation period for these proposed regulatory changes opened on 12 August 2024 and concluded on 7 October 2024. During this time, stakeholders including landlords and members of the public were invited to express their views and contribute to the decision-making process. Once the council has reviewed the feedback, and subject to approval by the Secretary of State, the Article 4 Direction is expected to be enacted by August 2025 (Lambeth Council, 2023).
It is also worth noting that the Lambeth Council previously considered an immediate action using the Article 4 Direction but was deterred by potential legal challenges and attached costs. Hence, a delayed implementation strategy was adopted, balancing the need for regulatory oversight with respect for legal and logistical practicality (Lambeth Council, 2023).
Future Implications for Landlords and Property Investors
The potential implementation of an Article 4 Direction underscores the importance for landlords and property investors to stay engaged with the evolving legislative landscape. This measure would substantially affect their ability to transition properties into HMOs without gaining prior approval. The council encourages these parties to be proactive in participating in consultations to voice opinions and perhaps influence forthcoming policymaking (Lambeth Council, 2023).
In tandem with this policy proposal, Lambeth Council has also activated a new selective landlord licensing scheme, impacting the same wards targeted by the proposed Article 4 Direction. This dual approach signifies a comprehensive plan to both regulate property conversions and maintain a balanced residential environment, safeguarding community interests in the face of changing urban dynamics (Lambeth Council, 2023).
Moving away from simply monitoring reactions, Councillor Danny Adilypour, Member for Sustainable Growth and New Homes, articulates the council’s position candidly – reaffirming a commitment to positive intervention where HMOs are concerned, to protect the long-term wellbeing of the communities and their current residents.
Key Takeaways
- Lambeth Council has proposed stricter planning controls on smaller HMOs in Streatham Common & Vale and Streatham St Leonard’s.
- The consultation period allowed public participation from August to October 2024.
- An Article 4 Direction is under consideration to require planning permission for converting houses to small HMOs.
- The enactment is contingent upon feedback and Secretary of State’s approval, projected for August 2025.
- Landlords are advised to engage with the process to protect their investment interests.
- A new selective licensing scheme complements the regulatory strategy, addressing housing quality and community impact.
Visit Lambeth Council’s Official Website for more details about the proposal and consultations.
Sources
- Lambeth Council. Proposed planning control changes on HMOs. Available from: https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/house-multiple-occupation-regulations [Accessed 12 October 2023].
