New planning rules for smaller HMOs in Telford and Wrekin

Following a consultation, new planning rules for smaller houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in Telford and Wrekin will come into force next year.

Telford & Wrekin Council launched a consultation in December to look at changing the way HMOs are managed in the Borough, with the aim to create safer homes and fairer standards for tenants and landlords.

The consultation has been delivered in two parts, asking people to comment separately on proposed changes to planning and licensing rules.

Nearly 200 people commented on the proposed planning changes, which would see an Article 4 Direction being introduced.

With overwhelming support in favour of the proposals, the Article 4 Direction has been confirmed and will come into force in 12 months (on 27 February 2027), in line with statutory requirements.

This means that all new HMOs, from 27 February 2027, will now be subject to planning permission, removing the ability for landlords to create smaller HMOs under permitted development rights.

Meanwhile the consultation on changes to licensing arrangements is ongoing and people have until 5pm on Wednesday 11 March.

Currently only HMOs with five people or more have to apply for mandatory licensing, but under the proposals, the Council would require all HMOs, both new and existing, to have a licence.

This would help to improve living conditions for tenants and create safe and fairer standards for all.

Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said:

“As a Council, we are on a mission to improve the availability, quality and affordability of housing for local people through a raft of measures as set out in our housing strategy.

“One area where we know more needs to be done is the management of HMOs in the Borough, which is why we launched a consultation on new proposals at the end of last year.

"Thanks to everyone who has shared their thoughts so far on our proposals for houses in multiple occupation.

“The Article 4 Direction when it comes into force next year will give the Council greater control on where HMOs are created. It will allow the Council to consider the impact of all new HMOs on local amenities and communities before a planning decision is made.

“This is an important step forward in our plans to create safe homes and fairer standards in HMOs.

“I would now encourage people, if they haven’t already, to take a moment to complete the licensing consultation too. The proposals are about improving living standards and holding landlords to account and it’s really important we have the feedback from our local communities.”

People can comment on the licensing proposals for HMOs online.