Plans could see rules on city's HMOs tightened

MEASURES could be taken to restrict the development of houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) across the whole of Liverpool amid calls for changes in the south of the city.

- By DAVID HUMPHREYS

It was revealed earlier this week that the increase of HMOs is causing “major tension” for people living around L18.

Powers were laid down by Liverpool Council four years ago to restrict where HMOs could be used across the city, focusing mainly in the north and city centre, known as article 4. The opposition Liberal Democrat group has launched a bid to have these powers extended to the south end.

Council documents have shown that, in a response to a written question, Cllr Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool Council, had not ruled out a citywide approach to HMO controls. Tightening the rules on where property changes can be made has been described as “an appropriate option for Liverpool to explore”.