Telford and Wrekin Council is moving forward with new planning controls for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which will take effect from February 2027. An Article 4 Direction will be introduced, meaning that planning permission will be required for all new HMOs.
The council stated that this measure will allow it to have more control over the creation of shared homes and to assess their impact on local neighbourhoods and services. Cllr Nathan England, cabinet member for safer streets and better housing, said the Article 4 introduction will provide "greater oversight of new HMOs and help ensure growth is managed appropriately for the benefit of residents, landlords and communities."
Meanwhile, the council's plans to introduce additional licensing for smaller HMOs have been put on hold until next year. This pause follows a legal challenge raised by landlords. Officials plan to review the position in 2027, considering the impact of the Article 4 Direction and national housing reforms.
Telford and Wrekin Council also confirmed it will continue enforcement actions against landlords for poor housing conditions. Additionally, landlords in the West Midlands will be among the first to register their rented properties under a new national system from December.