Purpose

This report highlights progress toward confirming the Article 4 Direction for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across 13 wards in Merton. It outlines the decision taken by Cabinet in February 2026 to introduce an immediate borough-wide requirement for planning permission for new HMOs, effective from March 2026. The report also explains the statutory requirement to undertake public consultation and secure formal confirmation of the Direction by September 2026 for it to remain in force, and LSG’s views ahead of forthcoming Cabinet and Council decisions.

Decision

RESOLVED:

Cabinet is asked:

A. That, following review of the consultation responses, Cabinet recommends to Council that the immediate Article 4 Direction for small HMOs covering the 13 wards listed in the report, which started on 24th March 2026, be Confirmed to make it permanent.

B. To note that there is an entitlement to compensation for the first 12 months where planning permission is refused for development that would have been permitted development but for an Article 4 Direction as set out in the report.