North Warwickshire Borough Council invites feedback on a proposed Article 4 Direction requiring planning permission for small HMOs (3–6 occupants). Consultation runs 6 Nov – 18 Dec 2025.
North Warwickshire Borough Council is inviting residents and stakeholders to take part in a public consultation regarding a proposed Article 4 (1) Direction that would remove permitted development rights for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the borough.
The consultation will run for six weeks, starting on Thursday, 6th November 2025 and closing on Thursday, 18th December 2025.
A small HMO is defined as a property where three to six unrelated individuals share basic amenities, such as a kitchen or bathroom. The proposed Article 4 Direction would require planning permission for any change of use from a dwelling house (C3) to a small HMO (C4), helping the Council better manage the concentration and standards of HMOs in the area.
Councillor Mark Simpson, Chair of the Planning and Development Board, said:
“We want to make sure all types of housing in North Warwickshire are well managed and in the right places. This Article 4 Direction will help the Council keep a better balance of homes across the borough by requiring planning permission before a house can be turned into a small HMO. It’s not a ban on shared housing, but a way to make sure proposals are properly considered so we can avoid too many in one area and maintain good standards for residents and communities."
The Article 4 Direction complements existing initiatives such as the HMO licensing scheme, which already requires properties with more than five occupants to be licensed.
Residents can view the full Article 4 Direction, including a map of the affected area and supporting documentation, via the Council’s website: www.northwarks.gov.uk/article4
Comments and feedback are welcome. Any person wishing to make written representations concerning the direction must submit these during the representation period, which is from Thursday, 18th December 2025, by email to: planningpolicy@northwarks.gov.uk or letter to: The Chief Executive, Council House, South St, Atherstone CV9 1DE.