Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is investigating a major crackdown on shared housing to control the spread of Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) across the borough. The council is considering new rules that would require planning permission for anyone wanting to convert a residential property into an HMO for the first time. Currently, up to six unrelated people can live in a house without needing council permission.
Council leaders say poorly managed HMOs have damaged neighbourhoods throughout Newcastle Under Lyme, causing anti-social behaviour, parking chaos, and rubbish problems. The proposed changes aim to give the local authority greater control over housing conversions and ensure proper safeguards are in place for vulnerable residents. If approved, Newcastle Under Lyme would assess each HMO application individually rather than allowing conversions under current national rules.
Council Leader Jonathan Gullis spoke firmly about the issue, stating: "For too long, Westminster laws have allowed family homes to be turned into small HMOs without proper local scrutiny. I will not allow Newcastle-under-Lyme to be treated as a dumping ground." Councillor Vanessa Renshaw emphasised that protecting vulnerable residents and maintaining community standards are the council's priorities in this investigation.
The investigation represents a significant shift in how Newcastle Under Lyme would manage residential property conversions. Rather than operating under national planning rules that permit HMOs with up to six occupants without permission, local decision-making could become the standard. Residents concerned about shared housing in their neighbourhood may soon have a formal process for raising objections and ensuring developments meet local needs.