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Liverpool is preparing to implement new planning regulations aimed at strengthening the city’s control over the increase and clustering of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). These planning measures are designed to require planning permission before a family home can be converted into a small HMO, which accommodates between three and six unrelated individuals sharing amenities like kitchens or bathrooms.
On Tuesday, 13 October, the Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve new Article 4 Directions that introduce this requirement. At present, national permitted development rights allow such conversions without planning permission unless an Article 4 Direction applies. Larger HMOs with more than six occupants already require planning approval. If these new measures receive the green light, they would be enforced immediately across several neighborhoods where the growth of HMOs is noticeable. These areas include Kirkdale, Everton, County, Walton, Orrell Park, parts of Fazakerley and Tuebrook Larkhill, Old Swan and sections of Stoneycroft, Penny Lane and parts of Calderstones, as well as St Michaels and Sefton Park.
It is important to note that the introduction of Article 4 Directions does not prohibit HMOs outright. Rather, it eliminates the automatic right to convert a family residence into a small HMO, allowing the Council to evaluate each application through the planning process. This enables a more thorough assessment of factors such as existing HMO densities, the impact on available family housing, neighborhood character, as well as pressures on local services like parking and waste management.
Research conducted by the Council reveals that HMOs account for roughly 3% to 4.6% of Liverpool’s housing stock. Although the majority of HMOs fall within the current Article 4 boundary, the number of small HMOs within this zone increased by 15% over three years, compared to a 57% rise in other parts of the city. A recent survey attracting 1,070 responses from residents city-wide showed strong support for expanding Article 4 controls, with 80.7% backing the move, citing protection of family housing, neighborhood character, and residential amenity as key reasons. Should Cabinet approve the proposal, a formal consultation period will follow, inviting feedback from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders before a final decision is made.
Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy, emphasized the importance of managing HMO growth responsibly, stating: “HMOs play an important role in meeting Liverpool’s housing needs, but we must be able to manage where new properties are created and prevent excessive concentrations from placing unfair pressure on individual neighbourhoods. These proposals would give us greater oversight of new HMOs, helping to protect family housing and ensure our communities remain balanced and sustainable. This will mean that all proposals are properly considered through the planning process, taking account of their location and potential impact on residents and local services.”
Similarly, Councillor Hetty Wood, Cabinet Member for Housing, expressed the goal of maintaining strong communities: “We want Liverpool’s neighbourhoods to remain places where people can put down roots, raise families and feel proud of where they live. HMOs provide an important housing option for many people and will continue to have a place in our city. But we also need to make sure communities remain balanced and that local residents have confidence that new developments are being carefully considered. By taking a more planned approach to future growth, we can help ensure Liverpool’s neighbourhoods remain welcoming, sustainable places where people want to live for years to come.”
Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More
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