Purpose

To update Cabinet on the updated evidence base on HMO numbers and developments in the City and consider options for Article 4 Direction and / or Additional Licensing

Decision

Agreed (i) – That Cabinet approve the making of the city-wide Article 4 Direction subject to following the statutory processes necessary, to remove permitted development rights for small HMOs (Class C3 to C4) across the city on 23 October 2026.

Agreed (ii) That Cabinet approves the Article 4 Direction with immediate effect

Agreed (iii) – That Cabinet delegates authorityto the Corporate Director of Housing, Regeneration and Operations to take all necessary steps to implement the above recommendations, incur related expenditure and to approve any minor amendments to the date given.

Agreed (iv) – That Cabinet notes a further report will be submitted to Cabinet following the statutory consultation period to consider any responses and, informed by the responses, to determine whether the Article 4 Direction should be confirmed.