A northern council is moving forward with stronger controls on HMOs. 

Warrington council also has powers under an Article 4 Direction to scrap automatic conversion rights in some parts of its patch, meaning landlords will need planning permission before converting family homes into HMOs. 

Now it intends to expand these controls to cover the rest of the borough, giving communities the same level of protection wherever they live. 

The Direction, if approved, will apply from September 2026.

The council is simultaneously consulting on a new draft HMOP supplementary planning document setting standards for HMOs including space, facilities, and management. 

A spokesperson says: “Residents have been clear. In some areas, there are simply too many HMOs concentrated in the same streets, and it’s having a real impact on parking, noise, and the character of our neighbourhoods.

“We’ve listened, and we’re stepping in. 

“These changes give us the legal powers to control new HMO conversions, prevent over-concentration, and make sure new housing works for the people already living there.

“Well-managed HMOs still have a role to play in our housing mix, but they must be safe, in the right places and at the right scale.

“We won’t accept a free-for-all where communities are left to deal with the consequences.”