Consultation Opens on HMO Planning Restrictions in Kidderminster

Wyre Forest District Council has launched a six-week public consultation on proposed planning restrictions targeting Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Kidderminster. The consultation seeks views on introducing an Article 4 direction, which would remove permitted development rights that currently allow family homes to be converted into small HMOs without planning consent.

This consultation invites input from local residents, landlords, property owners, and sector groups. It represents an important opportunity for stakeholders to influence how HMOs are managed within the district.

What the Article 4 Direction Means

If implemented, the Article 4 direction would require landlords to apply for planning permission before converting properties into HMOs housing up to six tenants. This change aims to give the council greater control over where HMOs are located and ensure they meet appropriate standards.

The council has identified a rising concentration of HMOs in certain neighbourhoods, which has led to concerns about pressures on parking, waste collection services, and the availability of larger family homes. By managing the location and quality of HMOs through planning controls, the council hopes to balance housing needs with community wellbeing.

Council’s Position and Resident Concerns

Coun Dan Morehead, the cabinet member for planning, acknowledged that many HMOs in Kidderminster provide good quality accommodation. However, he also recognised residents’ concerns about poorly managed properties in some areas, stating:

“We know many HMOs in Kidderminster provide good quality homes. But we’re also listening to residents who are concerned about the number of poorly managed properties in some areas. These proposals are about making sure HMOs are in the right places and meet the standards our communities deserve.”

He emphasised the importance of the consultation, encouraging as many residents as possible to participate and share their views.

Implementation Timeline and Next Steps

Should the Article 4 direction be approved, it is expected to come into force in February 2027. From that date, all new small HMOs in Kidderminster would require formal planning approval before conversion.

The consultation period runs until 6 April, and an online survey has been made available for submissions. This process will help the council assess community sentiment and the potential impact on landlords and tenants before finalising the policy.

What This Means for Landlords

Landlords in Kidderminster planning to convert family homes into HMOs accommodating up to six tenants will need to factor in the new planning permission requirement from February 2027. This change could affect the speed and cost of property conversions and may influence investment decisions in the area.

Engagement in the consultation offers landlords a chance to express their perspectives on the proposed restrictions and help shape local housing policy. Staying informed and involved will be crucial for landlords and letting agents operating in Kidderminster’s private rented sector.

How to Participate

Anyone living, working, or owning property in Kidderminster can contribute to the consultation. The council encourages landlords, residents, and sector groups to complete the online survey before the deadline on 6 April.

This consultation is a key step in managing the balance between providing shared housing and maintaining community standards in the district.

Suggested internal link anchors

• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
• planning permission for HMOs
• Article 4 direction
• private rented sector regulations
• landlord responsibilities
• property conversion rules
• local housing policy
• tenant management standards
• rental property compliance
• housing consultation process

TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/