New planning proposals to control standard and number of multi-occupation properties

Cheshire East residents are being asked to give their views on proposals to control the number of houses in multiple occupation in parts of the borough and to raise their standards of accommodation.

Consultations have begun on proposed new planning rules concerning houses in multiple occupation, known as HMOs. Everyone, including residents, landlords and tenants, is invited to take part.

A new HMO supplementary planning document proposes tighter controls to make sure such housing meets a range of standards and to avoid over-concentration of HMOs in local neighbourhoods.

There is a second consultation, aimed specifically around proposals to control the number of HMOs in parts of Crewe - in the Nantwich Road, West Street and Hungerford Road.

If approved, it would mean that any new small HMO in these areas would no longer benefit from automatic planning permission under national regulations. Instead, planning permission would first need to be obtained from the council.

Councillor Toni Fox, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for planning, said: “We are aware that our residents would like to see more control exercised over the standard of HMOs and their numbers.

“We recognise that this type of housing has a very important role to play in providing accommodation for people. However, it is important that numbers are controlled and that the quality of accommodation is – in some instances – raised so that individuals or families can enjoy a reasonable and appropriate standard of housing.

“But we are also aware that in some parts of the borough – in Crewe for example – residents have become increasingly concerned about the high density of HMOs in their area and the affect this can have on the character of the neighbourhood.

“I would urge anyone who wishes to comment on these proposals to take part in the consultations.”

More information about the consultations and how to respond to them is available via: https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/consultations

or by contacting the council’s strategic planning team via email at: localplan@cheshireeast.gov.uk or telephone 01270 685893.

Pictured - Councillor Toni Fox, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for planning.