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Search the Public Notice PortalAll new houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in Havering could soon require planning permission under proposed rules.
Havering Council has launched a public consultation on plans to introduce new planning controls for HMOs across the borough.
The council is proposing an Article 4 Direction, which would remove permitted development rights and require planning permission for any new HMO conversions.
Under current rules, some detached homes in certain parts of Havering can be converted into HMOs without planning approval.
The proposed changes would create a consistent policy across the entire borough.
Councillor Keith Prince AM, leader of Havering Council, said: "We know residents care deeply about the quality of housing in their neighbourhoods and the impact that poorly managed or over-concentrated HMOs can have on local communities.
"This proposed Article 4 Direction would give the council greater ability to consider HMO applications through the planning process, helping us to manage growth in a fair, consistent and responsible way.
"I encourage residents, landlords, businesses and all interested parties to take part in the consultation and share their views."
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The new planning rules would apply to all residential properties changing to HMOs.
If adopted, the Article 4 Direction would give the council greater power to assess HMO applications against planning policy.
This would allow consideration of factors such as the quality of residential development and adequacy of facilities, the need for family-sized homes, the over-concentration of HMOs in particular areas, antisocial behaviour and impacts on local services, and parking and transport impacts.
An evidence report has been prepared to support the proposal and is available as part of the consultation documents.
The report states that evidence shows there are a "significant number of detached houses across the borough that could be at risk from redevelopment to an HMO without planning permission being needed from the council".
It adds that the proposed new rules will address this risk of "uncontrolled conversion".
The Article 4 Direction is set to come into force on September 7, 2027, subject to the outcome of the consultation.
The public consultation is open for eight weeks, with residents, landlords, and businesses invited to have their say until October 16.
You can email your views to developmentplanning@havering.gov.uk with ‘Article 4 Direction Consultation’ in the subject line, or write to London Borough of Havering, Development Planning Team, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford RM1 3BD.
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