Cllr Nigel Dugmore (Conservative, Muxton) has welcomed the decision by Telford & Wrekin Council to gather evidence on introducing mandatory registration and tighter planning controls for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The Conservative Group has repeatedly urged the Council to take this step.

This move comes amid growing concerns over the Labour government’s policy of relocating undocumented, unvetted illegal immigrants from hotels into HMOs situated in the heart of local communities.

Cllr Dugmore said:

It is essential that Article 4 Directions (A4Ds) for HMOs are applied and enforced borough-wide, not just in selected areas. Furthermore, no new HMOs should be approved within a specified distance of existing ones to prevent detrimental impacts on our communities.

The council’s draft housing strategy notes a 16% increase in licensed HMOs since the last strategy, with 280 currently licensed in the borough. While HMOs provide a vital housing option for those starting employment, study, or seeking affordable accommodation, concerns remain over overcrowding, anti-social behaviour, and parking issues.

Other West Midlands councils, including Walsall, Dudley, and Birmingham, have successfully introduced A4Ds to regulate HMOs more effectively, requiring planning permission for conversions and developments. Walsall, for instance, acknowledged that HMOs had “not been regulated or managed effectively” before introducing their scheme.

Telford & Wrekin Council’s draft strategy confirms it will consider mandatory HMO licensing, enforce licence conditions, and consider further licensing schemes and Article 4 Directions to manage and monitor HMOs.

Cllr Dugmore concluded:

We urge the council to implement these measures urgently to protect the character and safety of our neighbourhoods.