In recent weeks, residents in East Durham have united in a grassroots campaign aimed at tightening regulations surrounding houses in multiple occupations (HMOs). Spearheaded by a petition with 153 signatures, the movement seeks to prompt Durham County Council to take more proactive measures in regulating the conversion of family homes into HMOs, amid rising concerns of community impacts, including anti-social behaviour and declining property values.
Key Takeaways
- Residents in East Durham are advocating for stricter regulations on houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) due to rising concerns over family home conversions.
- The petition for better public information and HMO controls reflects growing apprehension about the impact of HMOs on local communities.
- Current council policies differentiate between East Durham and the city center, as local authorities believe the low percentage of HMOs does not require additional restrictions.
Background on HMO Regulations in East Durham
In November 2024, a petition initiated by residents in East Durham is drawing attention to the growing concerns surrounding Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in the area. The petition, which has collected 153 signatures, calls upon Durham County Council to enhance regulatory measures on HMOs, particularly regarding informing the public about new applications for conversion from family homes. Seaham councillor Kevin Shaw voiced his concerns about the disparity in protections between East Durham and the city centre, noting that the rising conversion of family homes into HMOs is increasingly prevalent in more deprived areas (Durham County Council, 2024).
While current regulations stipulate that landlords seeking to convert homes into HMOs with more than six occupants must secure planning permission, the council has resisted calls for stricter measures in East Durham, citing the area’s low percentage of HMOs as insufficient grounds for additional controls. There are existing selective licensing schemes in certain neighbourhoods; however, residents feel that issues such as diminished property values, antisocial behaviour, and escalating crime rates are being aggravated by the presence of HMOs (Shields Gazette, 2024).
Michael Kelleher, the council’s head of planning and housing, indicated that while interventions have been rendered necessary in Durham City due to a higher density of HMOs, he believes similar measures are unwarranted for East Durham. This situation has prompted local advocacy for amendments to current HMO policies to address community concerns more effectively (The Northern Echo, 2024).
The ongoing debate reflects a broader dialogue about housing regulation and community safety, as residents advocate for their rights to a peaceful living environment amidst the changing dynamics of housing in the region.
*Sources:*
• Durham County Council,
2024. *East Durham Residents Call for Action on HMO Regulations* [online] Available at: https://www.durham.gov.uk
• Shields Gazette,
2024. *Councillor Urges Action on HMOs in East Durham* [online] Available at: https://www.shieldsgazette.com
• The Northern Echo,
2024. *Planning Chief Defends HMO Policies in East Durham* [online] Available at: https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk
For more information about housing regulations and community advocacy, read our related articles on [HMO regulations](https://www.yorkshireblog.com/hmo-regulations) and [community safety measures](https://www.yorkshireblog.com/community-safety).
Community Concerns and Council Response
The implications of HMOs on local communities have prompted varied responses, highlighting the complex interplay between landlord rights and community welfare. As the petition illustrates, many East Durham residents feel that the rapid rise in HMOs compromises their quality of life and disrupts the fabric of family-oriented neighbourhoods. The local government’s reluctance to implement further restrictions stems from an analysis of demographic trends and residential needs; however, a growing contingent of residents argues for more robust frameworks that could help retain the character of their communities amidst ongoing transformations (Durham County Council, 2024). The dynamics of landlord-tenant relationships, particularly in areas experiencing socioeconomic challenges, are also being scrutinised, with many advocating for a balanced approach that considers both housing demand and local resident interests.
