Councillors in Oldham Demand Change to Rules on Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

Councilors in Oldham have voiced concerns about the rapid growth of homes in multiple occupation (HMOs) in local areas, particularly in Shaw and Failsworth. They are pushing for new rules that would require landlords to obtain planning permission to convert properties into HMOs of any size, giving town planners the power to reject proposals under certain circumstances. This move has the support of the Oldham Labour group, making it likely to pass at the full council meeting on July 16.

Key Takeaways:

• The Shaw and Crompton Independents, led by Councillor Marc Hince, have introduced a motion to change the rules on HMOs, which has the backing of the Oldham Labour group.
• The current planning process allows HMOs with fewer than six bedrooms to be exempt from planning permission, but some councillors want to close this loophole.
• The proposal aims to give town planners more powers to reject HMO applications, particularly in areas like Shaw, which has been severely impacted by the growth of HMOs.
• The motion highlights the need for greater control over HMO development, which is seen as a symptom of the housing crisis and can be exploitative of vulnerable people.
• In Shaw, residents have protested against HMO developments, claiming that the town is being "flooded" with these types of properties, while community assets have closed down.

Statistics:

• There are approximately 307 officially registered HMOs across the borough of Oldham.
• Only 59 of these HMOs required planning permission.
• Article 4 Directions are in force in several other Greater Manchester boroughs, including Manchester, Salford, Bolton, and Trafford.

Sources:

• "HMO to be developed at vacant site designated for employment use"
• "Demolition begins on abandoned 'eyesore' pub"
• "Article 4 Directions are currently in force in several other Greater Manchester boroughs, including Manchester, Salford, Bolton and Trafford."