Understanding Article 4 Direction for HMOs in Bedford

Understanding Article 4 Direction for HMOs in Bedford

Investing in properties to rent as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has become a popular choice for landlords across the UK. However, in some areas, local authorities have introduced measures to control the spread of HMOs to ensure balanced communities and protect the character of residential neighborhoods. One such measure is the Article 4 Direction, which requires property owners to seek planning permission before converting family homes into HMOs in designated areas. This blog will explain what Article 4 Direction means for HMOs in Bedford, how it affects landlords and investors, and why Bedford Borough Council has chosen to implement it.

What is Article 4 Direction?

Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, certain changes in property use do not require planning permission. For example, a property owner can convert a family home (Use Class C3) into a small HMO (Use Class C4, which accommodates three to six unrelated occupants) without needing planning permission, thanks to permitted development rights. However, Article 4 Direction allows local councils to remove these rights in certain areas.

When an Article 4 Direction is in place, property owners must obtain planning permission to convert a single-family dwelling into an HMO. This measure helps local authorities regulate the concentration and location of HMOs, often to preserve neighborhood character and prevent issues related to overcrowding, noise, parking, and community balance.

Why Bedford Borough Council Implemented Article 4 Direction

Bedford Borough Council introduced the Article 4 Direction to address concerns about the high concentration of HMOs in specific areas, which can lead to several social and environmental challenges. By requiring planning permission for new HMOs, the council can:

1. Promote Community Balance: Excessive concentrations of HMOs can disrupt the balance of residential communities, as they often have higher turnover rates than single-family homes. Regulating HMO numbers helps ensure a mix of property types, supporting a diverse, stable community.

2. Mitigate Social and Environmental Issues: High concentrations of HMOs can lead to parking congestion, noise complaints, and pressure on local services. Article 4 Direction enables the council to consider these factors in planning applications and manage HMO growth.

3. Preserve Neighbourhood Character: Bedford has areas with historic and unique character, which the council aims to preserve. Article 4 Direction helps control the density of HMOs, reducing the impact on the aesthetics and structure of residential neighborhoods.

How Does Article 4 Direction Affect Landlords and Property Investors in Bedford?

For landlords and investors, Article 4 Direction means that the conversion of a family home into an HMO in specific areas of Bedford now requires planning permission. Here are some key implications:

• Additional Planning Costs and Time: Seeking planning permission requires additional time and can involve costs associated with application fees, preparing supporting documents, and possibly hiring planning consultants. These added steps may influence an investor’s timeline and budget.

• Risk of Application Rejection: The council may refuse permission if it feels the proposed HMO would negatively impact the area. Investors should thoroughly research the area’s HMO density and consult with local planning professionals to increase their chances of success.

• Influence on Investment Strategy: For those planning to enter the HMO market in Bedford, Article 4 Direction might prompt investors to focus on properties outside designated areas or to consider different property use classes. It also incentivizes research into local regulations and market needs before purchasing.

Areas Covered by Article 4 Direction in Bedford

https://www.bedford.gov.uk/files/map-article-4-direction-relating-c3-c4-use-200518.pdf/download?inline

The Article 4 Direction applies only to specific areas within Bedford, particularly those with a higher concentration of HMOs. You can view the map and more details about the designated areas on the Bedford Borough Council’s website. This targeted approach allows the council to address areas most affected by HMO proliferation without imposing restrictions across the entire borough.

What to Consider If You’re Buying Property in Bedford for HMO Purposes

For potential HMO investors, understanding Article 4 Direction in Bedford is crucial for making informed investment decisions. Here are some key considerations:

• Research Designated Areas Carefully: Check whether the property you’re interested in falls within an Article 4 area. The council provides maps and guidance to help investors understand where Article 4 applies.

• Plan for Additional Costs: Factor in the cost of applying for planning permission and any additional consultancy fees to assess the feasibility of your HMO project.

• Consult Local Experts: Given the complexity of planning laws, consulting a local property expert or planning consultant can be invaluable. They can provide insights into the council’s policies, likelihood of approval, and possible adjustments to improve your application’s success.

Final Thoughts

The implementation of Article 4 Direction for HMOs in Bedford reflects the council’s commitment to sustainable community development. While it presents additional considerations for landlords and investors, it also supports a more balanced, stable, and livable community for residents. For those planning to invest in Bedford’s property market, understanding these local regulations is essential to making smart, compliant, and community-conscious decisions.

For more details on Bedford’s Article 4 Direction and a map of the designated areas, visit the Bedford Borough Council's official website. If you’re interested in exploring available properties in Bedford, consider browsing through options on property platforms such as Rightmove.

If you’re considering investing in HMOs in Bedford, it’s wise to get in touch with Mujahid Ali, a local HMO specialist with decades of experience in the Bedford property market. His deep knowledge of Bedford’s regulations, including Article 4 Direction, can help you navigate planning requirements and make the most of your investment. To learn more about how he can assist with your HMO strategy, visit Open House Bedford.