A council has launched a six-week public consultation on proposals to tighten the planning rules around converting properties into houses of multiple occupation (HMO).

As part of a long term Burnley council strategy to manage HMOs in the borough, it is considering removing permitted development rights in six wards, which currently allow a single dwelling house to be changed into a small HMO without planning permission.

Councillor Howard Baker, executive member for housing and planning, says: “I would encourage anyone with an interest in this issue to take part in this consultation. We want to hear all views to help us take an informed decision. 

“The proposal to remove permitted development rights won’t prevent HMOs being created but it will give the council more control over how many there are and where.” 

The consultation will end on November 6. 

A report will be taken to the council’s executive in spring 2027 to consider the comments received and decide whether to confirm the proposal. 

If confirmed, the new arrangement is set to come into operation from September 2027 to allow for the legal process to be completed.