At the end of the representation period, and after reviewing comments made by the public, the Mayor and Cabinet of Lewisham Council will decide whether the Article 4(1) Direction is to be confirmed. If confirmed, the Direction will come into force on the 19th January 2024

Lewisham Council is taking action to manage the growth of homes in multiple occupation (HMOs) in the borough by introducing an HMO Article 4 Direction. This move aims to improve the standard and concentration of small HMOs and protect local high streets while also addressing the needs of the community.

Understanding the Role of Small HMOs

Small HMOs, refer to residential properties where three to six unrelated individuals live together and share basic amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom. These living arrangements are often sought after by students and young professionals individuals due to their affordability compared to single-family dwellings, and the chance to build social connections in the houseshare. Small HMOs provide an essential housing option in areas with high demand and limited affordable housing, allowing residents to live in proximity to job opportunities and public services. However, managing the impact, concentration, and standard of small HMOs is crucial for maintaining the well-being and character of local communities.

Review of HMOs in Lewisham Borough

Lewisham Council commissioned a review of HMOs in the borough, finding a high and increasing demand for such properties. Several factors contributed to this demand, including a large and growing private rented sector, a lack of affordable housing, a growing student population, welfare reforms and HMO planning restrictions in neighbouring boroughs.

Implementing Article 4(1) Direction for Small HMOs

With an estimated 7,100 HMOs in the borough, the council has observed high levels of anti-social behaviour around these properties and increasing public concern about the impact of HMOs on the local community. We at HMO Letting Agent appealed to the council and suggested how HMO Management could be improved in the area without the need for Article 4. This was largely ignored and an Article 4(1) Direction has been implemented, withdrawing permitted development rights for small HMOs. This means that HMO planning permission will be required for converting dwelling houses (C3) into small HMOs (C4).

Lewisham’s Broader Strategy for HMO Improvement

The council aims to better manage the impact and standard of small HMOs in Lewisham and prevent overconcentration of HMOs within specific areas. The Article 4 Direction is part of the council’s broader strategy to improve HMO standards, including the extension of the HMO licensing scheme, where most HMOs now require a license.

Article 4 Direction Timeline and Areas Affected

An Article 4(1) Direction was confirmed on 7 January 2020 for Lewisham’s southern wards (Bellingham, Downham, Grove Park, and Whitefoot), requiring planning permission for converting single-family dwelling houses into small HMOs within these wards since 7 March 2020. A non-immediate Article 4 Direction has been approved for the remainder of the borough, which, if confirmed, will come into force on 19 January 2024. As a result, beginning on the 19th of January, 2024, planning permission will be mandatory for converting a single-family dwelling house into a small HMO within the rest of Lewisham’s wards.

Potential Impact on Affordable Housing Availability

While the new regulation aims to improve the standards of HMOs and ensure an appropriate mix of accommodation for residents, housing activist and former Lewisham Labour councillor, Leo Gibbons, expressed concerns about the policy’s potential impact on the availability of shared households in the area. Gibbons, co-director of PricedOut, argued that HMOs are essential for low-income individuals to afford living in areas like Lewisham, where they have access to jobs in London.

Council’s Stance on HMO Regulation and Tenant Protection

The council contends that tighter regulation of HMOs and their landlords could help provide better standards for tenants. By ensuring that HMOs meet the required standards and are appropriately managed, Lewisham Council aims to create a more balanced housing environment for all residents.

The Future of HMOs in Lewisham

As Lewisham Council implements the Article 4 Direction, the debate around HMOs and their role in the community continues. The council’s approach is intended to provide a better balance between preserving the character of the borough and addressing the housing needs of its residents. While some express concerns over the potential reduction in affordable housing, the council believes that a more regulated environment will ultimately benefit both HMO tenants and the wider community.

In the coming years, Lewisham Council’s policies and approach to HMOs will undoubtedly evolve in response to ongoing community needs and changing housing dynamics. The effectiveness of the current strategy will be a key factor in shaping future policy decisions and fostering a sustainable, inclusive housing landscape in the borough.

Sourced By: Neil Raja written by Carl Evans

www.hmlettingagent.co.uk/