Landlords in Kidderminster look set to have restrictions imposed on HMO conversions.

Wyre Forest District Council has launched a six‑week consultation into making a non-immediate Article 4 Direction and wants input from landlords into its plans. These would remove existing permitted development rights, meaning that they would need to apply for planning permission before converting a family home into a small HMO for up to six people.

The authority reports that there has been a growing concentration of HMOs in some neighbourhoods, which can lead to issues such as parking pressures, waste management problems and the loss of family‑sized housing.

Initially

The Article 4 Direction will initially only be in Kidderminster – due to be introduced from February 2027 - as officers admits they don’t have sufficient evidence that other parts of the district are similarly affected by the volume of conversions. However, its report adds: “Introducing the Article 4 direction now means officers can undertake a targeted approach in Kidderminster now, but should evidence come to light that other parts of the district are experiencing similar issues then they will consider if a further Article 4 Direction is required in respect of those areas.”

Councillor Dan Morehead, cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and the green agenda, says it’s been listening to residents who are concerned about the number of poorly managed properties in some areas.

Places

“These proposals are about making sure HMOs are in the right places and meet the standards our communities deserve,” he adds. “This consultation is an important opportunity for people to tell us what they think, and we hope as many residents as possible will get involved.”

Residents can take part in the online consultation until 6^th April, with feedback considered in a report to cabinet in June.

Meanwhile, another Midlands council is set to bring in similar new rules; officers have urged Erewash Borough Council in Derbyshire to implement an Article 4 direction for Long Eaton, Ilkeston, Cotmanhay, Kirk Hallam and Sandiacre when it meets tomorrow.

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