And yet another council is now tightening restrictions for potential HMOs.

Chorley Council has enacted an Article 4 Direction, requiring planning permission for converting standard homes into small HMOs. 

The new rule, effective immediately across the borough, removes previous ‘permitted development’ rights that allowed such changes without oversight. 

Larger HMOs, housing more than six people, were already subject to planning controls. The move aims to improve oversight of shared housing distribution and quality.

Chorley Council says the new planning requirement will improve oversight of HMOs, allowing its licensing team to ensure properties are well-managed and meet acceptable living standards. Planning permission remains available for proposals that align with local housing needs.

The Article 4 Direction reflects a growing trend among councils seeking to curb the unchecked spread of HMOs, which some argue has disrupted housing balance and community cohesion.

A spokesperson for Chorley council says: “We want to make sure that HMOs in Chorley are safe, well-managed, and fits in with the needs of our communities.  

“This new planning rule gives us the ability to look at each proposal properly, and make sure that locally-set policies can be used to guide their development.  It’s about getting the balance right and supporting the need for single person housing while protecting the character of our neighbourhoods.”