Tougher rules proposed to curb HMOs
BBCTougher rules are being proposed for houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) after an increase in shared homes in a town.
Darlington councillors will vote on plans to force all HMOs, regardless of size, to go through the full planning process.
Currently, only properties with more than six people are regulated, meaning several applications could be approved without public or council scrutiny.
A council report, due to be presented to cabinet members next week, said HMOs can "create issues" if they are not properly planned or managed.
"The introduction of an Article 4 direction will enable the council to control the location and quality of new HMOs," the report said.
"This will help deliver the council's aspiration of providing quality, affordable housing for all.
"It would also provide more information on their whereabouts."
'We are listening'
Earlier this year, residents on Greenbank Road in Darlington urged the local authority to introduce stricter measures to curb the number of properties being converted into HMOs.
They said landlords are contributing to the "uncontrolled transformation" of their neighbourhood, as more homes are reconfigured to suit more residents, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Council leader Stephen Harker said: "In a few days, cabinet will consider a report recommending introducing regulations that will mean smaller HMO conversions will be brought into the planning process, residents are concerned, and we are listening."
The authority's Homes Strategy for the next five years details plans to ensure access to safe, comfortable and sustainable housing for all, with a focus on building new affordable homes.