Preston Council has proposed new powers to reject HMO applications amid fears that the city is already being over-run by shared homes.

A new Article 4 Direction would give it greater planning control over the number of new HMOs within certain locations of the city, covering Preston’s main urban area, north of the River Ribble, east of the A582 (Edith Rigby Way), south of the M55 motorway, and west of the M6 motorway.

The council found more than 900 HMOs across the city and says the high concentration in urban areas is negatively impacting residents’ quality of life, including on-street parking, street cleanliness and anti-social behaviour, as well as reducing the supply of much-needed family accommodation.

Too many

Councillor Amber Afzal (pictured), cabinet member for planning and regulation, adds: “There is evidence that there are too many HMOs in the city, more than are necessary to meet local needs.

"The council are therefore consulting on introducing additional controls to limit the number of new HMOs through the planning process and we encourage the public to come along to our consultations to feedback on our proposed approach.”

The council’s report explains: “Low house prices mean landlords are more likely to buy properties to split and maximise their rental income. In turn these properties make Preston an attractive choice for vulnerable and low-income households then the cycle continues, increasing the number of HMOs in these areas.

"Despite Preston’s affordability ratio and areas of relatively low median house prices, the number of HMOs indicate that a house or flat is not an affordable option in many circumstances. Consequently, more properties are social rented, and it reduces the opportunities within the owner-occupied sector.”

A consultation to get residents’ views ends on 7th April.