Views sought on Kidderminster HMO planning rules

Residents in Kidderminster are being asked for their views on proposed new planning controls that would require landlords to seek permission before turning family homes into houses of multiple occupation (HMO).

Wyre Forest District Council has launched a six week public consultation on plans to introduce an Article 4 Direction covering the town. The consultation runs from 20 February to 6 April 2026.

If approved, the change would remove existing permitted development rights, meaning planning permission would be needed before converting a property into a small HMO for up to six people.

The new rules would come into force from February 2027.

The council said there had been a growing concentration of HMOs in some neighbourhoods, leading to concerns about parking pressures, waste management and the loss of family-sized housing.

Councillor Dan Morehead said: "We know many HMOs in Kidderminster provide good quality homes.

"We're also listening to residents who are concerned about the number of poorly managed properties in some areas. These proposals are about making sure HMOs are in the right places and meet the standards that our communities deserve.

"This consultation is an important opportunity for people to tell us what they think, and we hope as many residents as possible will get involved."

The authority said introducing an Article 4 Direction would allow it to better manage where new HMOs are located and ensure they contribute positively to local neighbourhoods.

People who live, work or own property in Kidderminster, as well as landlords and other interested groups, are being encouraged to take part.

The consultation can be completed online, with paper copies also available at The Hub in Green Street and at Wyre Forest House in Finepoint Way. All feedback will be reviewed before a report is presented to cabinet in June.

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