Councillors in Eastbourne look set to restrict the growth of HMOs in parts of their town.
The borough council’s planning committee will vote on whether to introduce an Article 4 direction next week (3rd June) which would mean landlords looking to convert homes into small HMOs would need planning permission.
A report to the committee explains that HMOs have the potential to negatively impact on communities in terms of the standard of living environment, particularly where there’s a high concentration in a specific area.
“In addition, it is acknowledged that there are contributory factors associated with a high turnover of HMO residents; the concentration of HMO residents facing economic hardship…and the higher proportion of HMO residents living with mental health/complex needs," it says.
"Together, these factors can result in detrimental effects on the character of local communities and neighbourhoods, and perceptions around increased levels of anti-social behaviour and petty crime. Additionally, unkempt properties that are not properly maintained impact on the amenity of an area and can adversely impact community cohesion.”
The direction would remove permitted development rights in part of the town, covering a large proportion of Devonshire, Meads and Upperton wards, plus a small area in the south of St Anthony’s ward where it borders Devonshire.
In the meantime, the council has advised owners of small HMOs to consider applying for a certificate of lawful development to confirm the use of their property is lawful and does not require planning permission.
Eastbourne began the process of introducing the Article 4 Direction last July, which was followed by a public consultation. It is also considering new planning policies related to HMOs which include putting size limits on the types of buildings considered suitable for conversion, reports The Argus.
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