Issue - meetings

Report of Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Regeneration and Planning

Lead Cabinet member: Councillor Peter Diplock

(Key decision):

(1) That an HMO Development Plan Document be prepared to provide new planning policy relating to HMOs.

(2) That Article 4 Direction be introduced through Planning Committee to remove permitted development rights relating to HMOs

(3) That proactive investigation into quantity and location of small HMOs be undertaken, including a pilot scheme to target private rented properties within a geographical area, particularly those HMOs that fall below the threshold for mandatory licensing

(4) That the Regulatory Services Enforcement Policy and the ‘Prescribed Standards for Houses in Multiple Occupation’ documents are reviewed and updated where necessary

(5) That all complaints regarding HMOs are captured and reporting procedures in relation to HMOs be updated.

The Cabinet considered the report of the Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Regeneration and Planning, updating it on the findings of the Eastbourne Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Study and asking it to consider options to address impacts relating to HMOs.

Visiting members, Councillors Smart and Di Cara, addressed the Cabinet on this item. Councillor Smart applauded officers for progressing the matter since the Full Council motion in February 2024. He further referenced the Article 4 direction to remove permitted development rights relating to HMOs and potential exploration for other permitted development rights and a wider remit in the Borough. Councillor Di Cara echoed comments made by Councillor Smart and added concerns around implementation and enforcement and the need for clearer interaction between planning and licensing departments as part of any enforcement action.

The Senior Planning Policy Officer addressed comments that had been made. The Aecom study confirmed that HMOs played an important part in the local housing market but acknowledged the impact that some were having on local communities.

The Cabinet commended the report, with the aim of improving the experience of HMOs for all concerned.

Resolved (Key decision):

(1) That an HMO Development Plan Document be prepared to provide new planning policy relating to HMOs.

(2) That Article 4 Direction be introduced through Planning Committee to remove permitted development rights relating to HMOs

(3) That proactive investigation into quantity and location of small HMOs be undertaken, including a pilot scheme to target private rented properties within a geographical area, particularly those HMOs that fall below the threshold for mandatory licensing

(4) That the Regulatory Services Enforcement Policy and the ‘Prescribed Standards for Houses in Multiple Occupation’ documents are reviewed and updated where necessary

(5) That all complaints regarding HMOs are captured and reporting procedures in relation to HMOs be updated

Reason for decisions:

To enable appropriate intervention to take place to mitigate the negative impacts of HMOs on residents and local communities.