Plan to tighten HMO rules amid 'wave' of activity

A bid to tighten planning rules on houses in multiple occupancy (HMOs) in part of Derbyshire is set to move forward amid a "wave" of developer activity.

Erewash Borough Council's executive committee is set to approve starting the process of implementing an Article 4 direction for Long Eaton, Ilkeston, Cotmanhay, Kirk Hallam, and Sandiacre when it meets on Tuesday.

The direction would ensure any application to change the use of a house or flat for between three and six unrelated people would need planning permission from the authority.

The Labour-led council said the number of HMOs was "growing rapidly".

HMOs typically have private bedrooms and shared facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms.

A report prepared for councillors said HMOs can provide affordable accommodation and meet specific housing needs.

However, it added that in areas where HMOs become increasingly concentrated, issues including a rise in anti-social behaviour, waste, and parking issues can occur.

It stated investors were purchasing low-value terraced properties and converting them into HMOs, which was reducing their availability for first-time buyers.

If the measure is approved, the plans would be subject to a consultation before councillors consider any representations made.

They would decide whether to implement the Article 4 direction at a future meeting.

According to council documents, the proposed changes to planning rules would likely come into effect in May 2027 if given the go-ahead.

The documents state local authorities near Erewash including Nottingham City Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, and Derby City Council have put in place Article 4 directions.

They also claim the order in inner-city Derby, which came into force in May 2025, had triggered a "current wave of developer activity" in Ilkeston and Long Eaton.

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