Birmingham to block houseshares in the city

Birmingham City Council is to block the conversion of family homes to houses of multiple occupation. The council has agreed a citywide direction requiring planning approval for any conversion to an HMO of more than three people. Current planning rules only require approval for properties larger than this. The clamp down will come into force on 8 June this year. Landlords that do not declare existing HMOs to the council may be forced to require retrospective planning applications or a certificate of lawful use. Councillor Sharon Thompson, cabinet member for homes and neighbourhoods, said: “Shared accommodation or houses in multiple occupation provide an important way of meeting the city’s housing needs. However, high concentrations of HMOs can have a negative impact on the character of neighbourhoods and create unbalanced communities. “This direction will enable the council to manage the growth of HMOs across the city more effectively, as any new proposals will be assessed in line with planning policies.” To send feedback, e-mail emma.rosser@egi.co.uk or tweet @EmmaARosser or @estatesgazette