The Government has declined to introduce new legislation restricting the conversion of family homes into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), stating that local authorities already possess adequate planning powers to control their proliferation.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook responded to a petition presented by Conservative MP Louie French, representing Old Bexley and Sidcup, which gathered 2,347 signatures from local residents. The petition called for new legislation to prevent family home conversions into HMOs and urged the Mayor of London to protect family housing in the next London Plan.
Existing planning controls
Pennycook told Parliament that councils can already limit HMO growth through Article 4 Directions, which require planning permission for conversions that would otherwise qualify as permitted development. He noted that Bexley council has implemented a borough-wide Article 4 Direction, ensuring all HMO proposals undergo local consultation.
“It is important that local areas have relevant, up-to-date policies in place against which any planning applications or appeals will be determined,” Pennycook said, adding that the Government would keep its regulatory powers under review.
Community concerns
Petitioners argued that the rise in HMOs was creating detrimental impacts on local communities, citing anti-social behaviour, parking pressures, and increased demand on local amenities and services. They contended that existing council powers were insufficient to prevent the loss of family homes and over-proliferation of HMOs.
The decision comes as local authorities face ongoing challenges in balancing housing needs across different sectors. While social housing waiting lists continue to grow, the conversion of family homes into shared accommodation remains a contentious issue in many communities.
Pennycook advised residents with concerns about local housing mix to raise issues with their local planning authority. The Government’s position maintains that current planning frameworks provide adequate tools for councils to manage HMO concentrations without requiring additional legislation.
The response suggests the Government views local planning control as sufficient to address community concerns about HMO proliferation, placing responsibility on councils to utilise existing powers effectively.
