The Rise of HMOs in Greater Manchester: Community Concerns vs. Affordable Housing Solutions
In Greater Manchester, HMOs have risen fast. They change neighborhoods. People share homes to cut rising rent costs. Many locals and officials worry about the effect on community life. Debates on small HMOs show the hard task of keeping housing needs close to community care.
The Rapid Increase of HMOs
Recently, more people choose HMOs. They save money when rents climb high. A Bolton Council report shows HMOs jumped from about 170 to over 720 in a short time. This jump makes officials push for tighter rules. The new rules target small HMOs that house six or fewer people.
In Salford, much is the same. A report shows HMOs went from 3 in Ordsall in 2017 to 437 in 2023. This jump changes local street life. Salford Council says the growth affects both social ties and local services. Many residents and leaders feel alarmed.
Residents’ Perspectives: Concerns Over Community Change
Changing family homes to HMOs has raised fears. In Breightmet, long-term residents see shared housing as a threat to steady community life. Some feel forced to sell because streets are shifting. A man in his 70s said, "This was once one of the nicest streets in the area." He fears that short stays may weaken the bond among neighbors.
Bolton Councillor Sean Fielding notes that HMOs do add diversity to the housing mix. Yet, he sees many HMOs crowding the same spots. This creates fewer homes for families. Residents worry that too many HMOs will dim the heart of their neighborhood.
The Call for Regulation
Bolton’s councillors now work together for tighter rules on HMOs. They want to undo 2010 reforms that let small HMOs skip planning checks. They say that stronger rules can bring back control as more HMOs appear.
Community groups join the council’s work against fast HMO growth. One group, called "Say No To HMO Horwich," works to keep family homes and local landmarks safe. Their petition shows that housing plans must put families first. They push for growth that keeps community values in sight.
Balancing Act: Landlord Perspectives and Community Needs
Landlords see HMOs as a smart investment. They earn a steady income from several tenants in one home. This way of renting suits students, young workers, and low-income people. It meets a need for cheaper housing in cities. Many owners say HMOs help ease local housing pressures.
New HMO applications show a model with flexible and cheaper living plans. This view needs strong planning and rules to keep existing neighborhoods healthy.
Conclusion
HMOs in Greater Manchester bring both cheaper homes and new challenges to community life. Local councils and residents share worries about fast changes. More rules to guide HMO growth are gaining support. Balancing cheaper housing with the care of neighborhood life is key for future city plans.
Talk in Greater Manchester shows that housing policy is complex. Leaders must think of both residents and landlords when shaping a long-lasting, united community.
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Disclaimer: This article has been generated by AI based on the latest news from Google News sources. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying key details from official reports.
