Have your say on the introduction of new planning controls for new houses of multiple occupancy in Scunthorpe  

Residents are invited to share their views on the proposals to introduce planning controls to help regulate the creation of new small houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) across Scunthorpe.  

Currently, under national legislation, property owners converting a house into an HMO for three to six unrelated residents, doesn’t require planning permission. Under the new proposal, these development rights would be removed, requiring property owners to obtain planning permission before converting a house into an HMO.  

This applies only to small HMOs (three to six unrelated occupiers). Large HMOs (seven or more) already require planning permission.  

Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment and strategic planning, said: 

“This proposal is in response to growing concerns about the impact of HMOs on local communities and we want to ensure communities are not affected negatively due to HMOs. By putting planning controls in place, we aim to ensure new HMOs are appropriately located, built to a high standard, and managed effectively to protect the local environment and community.  

“I would encourage residents, businesses and stakeholders to have their say on this consultation.” 

The concerns about the impact of HMOs on local communities, include: 

• Noise nuisance and antisocial behaviour 

• Increased pressure on local services and infrastructure 

• Car parking issues 

• Changes to the character of residential areas 

• Poor housing conditions and management 

• Loss of family-sized housing 

The proposal is a non-immediate Article 4 Direction covering all wards in Scunthorpe, which would remove the permitted development right, meaning planning permission would be required for small HMO conversions.  

The consultation begins on Thursday 27 November and will run until Wednesday 31 December 2025. You can have your say online on the current consultations page.  

The Article 4 Direction Notice, supporting documents, and FAQs can be found on the Article 4 Direction page or in person at Church Square House, Scunthorpe. 

Alternatively, you can submit your views by emailing: strategic.housing@northlincs.gov.uk or by post: Strategic Housing Team, North Lincolnshire Council, Church Square House, 30-40 High Street, Scunthorpe, DN15 6NL.  

The Article 4 Direction is intended to come into effect in 26 November 2026, subject to confirmation following the consultation.