Trafford Council have introduced an ‘Article 4 Direction’ which will give the Local Planning Authority more control over certain types of development in Trafford. The change will mean that planning permission will now need to be granted for dwellings to change their use to become ‘Houses of Multiple Occupation’ (HMOs).
The process of introducing an Article 4 has been under discussion for some time, prompted by the launch of the new UA92 University in Trafford, which will be based on the existing Kellogg’s site on Talbot Rd, Old Trafford. As a result of this development, it is likely there will be more students making Trafford their home and the Council are keen to proactively manage any potential impacts from this.
With the increased controls in place, the Council will now be better able to control the location and number of HMOs to protect the amenity of residents, minimise any potential adverse effects on the local housing market, ensuring an overconcentration of HMOs does not happen, and that the provision of student accommodation is of good quality.
A copy of the Direction, which covers the whole borough, can be viewed on the Council website or in person at Trafford Town Hall during normal office hours. Representations may be made by email to: development.management@trafford.gov.uk or by post to Trafford Council, Planning and Development, Trafford Town Hall, Talbot Rd, Stretford, M32 0TH. Representations must be received by 5 February 2018.
Posted on Thursday 11th January 2018