Withdrawal of Permitted Development Rights for the change of use of dwelling houses to houses in multiple occupation (HMO) by Article 4 Direction.

What are Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)?

'C4' HMOs are small shared dwelling houses occupied by between three and six unrelated individuals, as their only or main residence, who share basic amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom. Currently planning permission is not required from the Council to change use from C3 dwelling house to C4 HMOs due to 'Permitted Development Rights'.

What are Article 4 Directions?

An 'Article 4 Direction' would remove the permitted development rights of a property, or properties, and bring this change of use under the control of the Council. For more information on Article 4 Directions click here.

Why does Tendring need an Article 4 Direction?

There is a concern that increases in small HMOs in the Tendring District, particularly in town centre locations like the centre of Clacton where they might detract from the tourism function of the area and lead to social and health problems if not properly controlled.

The potential benefits of introducing an Article 4 Direction include:

• The opportunity to coherently support and manage the delivery of mixed and balanced communities in neighbourhoods throughout the town or district;
  
  
• The ability to drive up standards of HMO accommodation in terms of appearance and function and to manage the effects of additional HMOs by the use of planning conditions;
  
  
• The ability to minimise the negative effects that could arise from high concentrations of HMOs;
  
  
• The opportunity to consider proposals for HMOs on their merits having full regard to local issues; and
  
  
• The ability to improve conditions in neighbourhoods for existing residents and enhancing the attractiveness of the area to visitors, investors and potential new residents.