LATEST: Blackburn reveals plans to curb number of HMO conversions

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Blackburn is the latest town with ambitions to come down harder on HMO landlords by bringing in an Article 4 direction.

Blackburn with Darwen Council says it already has 1,000 HMO bed spaces, which is disproportionate to local needs and often means tenants – many of whom are incredibly vulnerable with multiple and complex needs – are brought into the borough, putting a huge strain on local services. 

It has launched a consultation to extend the ban on converting HMOs after citing success with existing Article 4 directions in seven wards across the borough where HMO conversions are only agreed in exceptional circumstances.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, executive member for growth and development, says that in the last 12 years, Blackburn has seen a massive increase in HMOs from 129 to almost 400.

“This new rule would mean we could take a much tougher stance on HMOs, which we know can be a magnet for anti-social behaviour and often are in need of improved standards,” he adds.

“The Article 4 direction is one way we can look to crackdown, but we also need government to act or give us new powers to address standards, licensing and the regulation of this sector.”

£1m grant

The council recently received almost £1m of government funding to help tenants in supported housing and support enforcement measures – and crack down on unscrupulous landlords.

The cash, from the government’s £20 million Supported Housing Improvement Programme, will allow for more frequent and thorough inspections of supported housing.

Comments on the Article 4 consultation need to be made by 23rd September. If approved, it is likely to take effect from September 2023.

Read more: The complete guide to renting an HMO property.

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