Decision details

To seek Leader’s approval to publish the Eastbourne Houses in Multiple Occupation Development Plan Document (HMO DPD) for public consultation between 2nd August and 27th September 2024.

(1)       That the Lead Member approves the publication of the Eastbourne HMO DPD (Appendix 1 of the report) for public consultation between Friday 2nd August and Friday 27th September 2024.

(2)       That the Lead Member delegates authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet member for enterprise, community spaces and planning, to make any necessary editorial changes and minor amendments to the consultation document and supporting evidence prior to publication if necessary.

(1)       To meet the requirements of Regulation 18 of the Town & Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 (as amended) in the preparation of a Development Plan Document

(2)       To ensure that any minor or typographical errors can be corrected prior to the HMO DPD being published for consultation

Alongside the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act, the Government proposed changes to planning regulations to reform the plan-making process. This included a deadline of the end of June 2025 for local planning authorities to submit plans for examination under the existing national framework. In order to meet this deadline, it will be necessary to undertake the initial round of public consultation on the HMO DPD under Regulation 18 of the Town & Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 (as amended), at this time.

The Council could choose not to undertake consultation on the HMO DPD at this time. However, delays in undertaking consultation would mean that the submission of the HMO DPD for examination by the end of June 2025 deadline may not be achievable.