New council planning rules concerning HMOs

Chorley Council has introduced new planning rules to help manage the distribution and quality of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), across the borough.

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The decision, which was approved at a full council meeting, saw an Article 4 Direction come into force immediately and anyone wanting to turn a regular house into a HMO (for three to six people who aren't related and share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms) will need to apply for planning permission. This change applies to all areas of Chorley.

Before now, these changes could be made without planning permission under 'permitted development rights'.

The new rule removes that automatic right so the council can look more closely at each proposal.

Larger HMOs for more than six unrelated people already require planning permission.