Fenland Council in Cambridgeshire has introduced an immediate Article 4 Direction before its consultation in a bid to clamp down on burgeoning HMOs in the pretty inland port of Wisbech.

The stronger powers, meaning that homes can no longer be converted into small HMOs without planning permission, take effect in the Wisbech Riverside and Wisbech South wards. The council will also be able to impose planning conditions such as limiting noise or providing adequate parking or bin storage.

A similar change (non-immediate Article 4 Direction) in the rest of the town - Wisbech North; Wisbech Walsoken and Waterlees; and Leverington and Wisbech Rural wards – is planned for February 2026.

Growing concerns

The council decided to adopt the direction due to growing concerns about the high concentration of HMOs and their detrimental impact on local communities.

The council is worried about HMO noise nuisance, antisocial behaviour, increased pressures on parking, refuse, and community facilitie

An evidence paper identified several concerns relating to the shared properties including noise nuisance, antisocial behaviour, increased pressures on parking, refuse, and community facilities, and impact on the character of the area. Other concerns include poor housing conditions and loss of family-sized housing.

A consultation on the Article 4 Directions runs until 21st March. The council will review all responses before deciding whether to confirm the immediate and non-immediate Article 4 Directions.

Councillor Sam Hoy (pictured), cabinet member for housing, says high concentrations of HMOs can have a significant impact on local communities.

“By implementing Article 4 Directions, we can ensure that new HMOs are developed in appropriate locations and to a high standard, striking the right balance between creating much-needed homes and protecting the character and wellbeing of our communities,” she adds.