Decision details

The purpose of this report is to seek member approval to prepare an Article 4 Direction for small HMOs. This includes the commissioning of consultants to produce a robust evidence base that supports the making of the Article 4 Direction and the geographic area to which the Direction will apply.

1. That Cabinet approve the making of an Article 4 Direction to remove permitted development rights for the change of use of a property from a Class C3 (residential) use to a Class C4 HMO.

2. That Cabinet approve the commissioning of a robust evidence study, estimated at £50,000, to support the making of the Article 4 Direction, including its geographic extent.

3. That Cabinet delegate authority to the Chief Planning Officer, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economy, to make a ‘non immediate’ Article 4 Direction.

4. To note that Cabinet approval will be required to confirm the Direction in 12 months’ time following the statutory period of publication and consultation.