Oldham Council has taken an important step by implementing a borough-wide Article 4 Direction from 1st January this year, after their consultation last year. Removing permitted development rights to convert a standard house into a HMO will now mean anyone wanting to create a small HMO must now apply for planning permission.
It is a win for all those who made their voices heard during the consultation period since now the council will have more control over the number, location, & quality of these properties to protect decent family housing.
This is about getting the balance right: supporting good quality housing, while protecting the character of our neighbourhoods and the stability of our streets – exactly wat I was pushing for in my submission to the consultation.
Too many communities feel change is happening 𝘵𝘰 them, not 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 them. This decision gives local people a stronger voice and brings common sense back into the planning system.
We need homes people can afford, but we also need places where families can put down roots and communities can thrive.
This is a fairer, more responsible approach and the right call for Oldham.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 