New planning powers to control the rise of shared housing throughout County Durham are being developed.
Durham County Council is increasing its coverage of Article 4 Directions for Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) beyond Durham City and its surrounding areas to cover the whole county.
Currently, houses can be converted into small HMOs – accommodating between three and six residents – without planning permission.
Only properties housing more than six residents require planning consent under existing rules.
The new Article 4 Direction changes this by requiring planning approval for all new HMOs, regardless of size. The new rules will take effect from August.
County council Cabinet members were due to be asked to approve the changes at a meeting this week.
Councillor Nicola Lyons, cabinet member for communities and civic resilience, said: “The overconcentration of HMOs in any one area can change the overall character of a neighbourhood.
“It can impact the availability of parking, contribute to increased noise levels, and affect the general appearance of properties. Long-term, it can also reduce the availability of housing for families.
“We believe the introduction of an interim policy alongside the countywide Article 4 Direction is necessary to help control the number of these properties and help us to maintain mixed and balanced communities across the county.”
A planning policy is also being developed to ensure clear guidance when determining HMO applications.
Interim changes detail how applications should not lead to three or more of the 10 nearest properties being HMOs.
It should also not result in the ‘sandwiching’ of a residential property between two HMO properties or an HMO and a property that is not a home.
The policy also sets detailed requirements to ensure the HMO accommodation is of a high standard for those living there and that the living conditions of neighbouring residents are protected.
If agreed, a consultation on the interim HMO policy will be held from March 25 to May 5, when residents are invited to give their views on the changes.
