HMO plan for Wigan Borough to be decided at cabinet

HMO plan for Wigan Borough to be decided at cabinet

Proposals that would extend Wigan Council’s control over the number of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) will be considered by cabinet members.

Subject to approval, the boroughwide plan would see all applications for HMOs require planning permission.

The borough currently has two areas – in Leigh and Swinley – where such measures are in place, known as Article 4 directions.

Under current regulations, the creation of small HMOs is deemed permitted development and does not require the submission of a planning application.

Introducing the borough-wide Article 4 extension means all applications would therefore be subject to the local authority’s planning process.

Councillor Paul Prescott, cabinet portfolio holder for planning, said: “HMOs offer flexibility in the housing market and are an important aspect of every area’s housing offer.

“But under this proposal, we will be able to scrutinise the number, distribution and management of all applications as part of our planning process.

“We believe this could help us to meet the diverse housing needs of our residents and contribute to reducing housing-related inequalities, all in line with our Progress With Unity approach.”

Wigan Borough currently has two ‘Article 4’ areas, in Swinley, Wigan, and Leigh town centre, introduced in 2020.

A report tabled for the cabinet meeting next week (Thursday, 3rd July) states ‘overspilling’ has occurred in wards adjacent to these areas.

And the proposal for a borough-wide direction reflects “an increasing overall level of demand from developers to bring forward this type of accommodation.”

Coun Prescott added: “It is important to note that this proposal does not mean an outright ban on HMOs, they are important as they often offer low-cost options for people whose housing options may be limited.

“However, we are being realistic in recognising that concerns about quality and rising numbers of applications exist within our communities and we acknowledge that.

“This step would help us exert tighter controls on the number, location and quality of these types of accommodation.”

Should cabinet members opt to introduce the borough-wide Article 4 Direction, the cabinet report recommends a period of public consultation, before potentially coming into effect in August.

The meeting of Wigan Council’s cabinet takes place on Thursday, 3rd July at 10.30am.