Landlords wanting to convert homes into small HMOs in North Tyneside could soon need to apply for planning permission.

If approved, an Article 4 Direction would come into effect on 6 August 2027 and apply to the following wards: Wallsend Central, Howdon, Chirton and Percy Main, North Shields, Whitley Bay North, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay South, Forest Hall, and Longbenton and Benton.

Neighbouring South Tyneside brought in an immediate borough-wide Article 4 Direction last November after councillors highlighted the significant rise in HMO conversions in recent years.

North Tyneside Council says these areas have been identified because there is evidence to suggest that there already small concentrations of HMOs and a greater prevalence of the types of property which are potentially suitable for conversion.

Remaining

It adds: “In relation to the remaining wards across the borough, there was no evidence to indicate that there were existing concentrations of HMOs, and the inclusion of other wards could not be justified. It is recognised that bringing controls into some areas could mean that HMOs are established outside these areas. Data continues to be collected, and we will continue to monitor HMOs and their impact. If there is new evidence, there could be scope to review the coverage of the Article 4 Direction.”

It explains that this is not a proposal to stop HMOs but is intended to ensure that future proposals are considered on a case-by-case basis. If the proposal is approved, applications for new HMOs would be assessed against local and national planning policies.

A consultation closes on 22 October.

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