A consultation has been launched on a clampdown on Homes in Multiple Occupation – although the measure won’t come into effect until next year. 

Preston council says an Article 4 Direction relating to HMOs will introduce greater local authority control over the creation of HMOs by removing permitted development rights from landlord owners. 

The council claims there are over 900 HMOs in Preston – and since that number was officially collected, it estimates another 60 have popped up.

A statement says: “This high concentration of HMOs in Preston’s urban area has been shown to negatively impact residents’ amenities and quality of life, including increased pressure on on-street parking, issues relating to street cleanliness, and instances of anti-social behaviour.”

The Article 4 Direction consultation will take place online over the next six weeks, closing on Thursday March 19. 

Should the decision be confirmed by the council, it won’t come into effect until February 2027.