Merton Council has moved to tighten regulations on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) by recommending the permanent confirmation of an Article 4 Direction. This means that planning permission will now be required for all new HMOs in 13 wards across the borough.
The decision, made by the Cabinet on Monday 13 July 2026, follows a public consultation period where 82% of respondents supported the permanent confirmation of the direction. The Article 4 Direction, which initially came into effect on 24 March 2026, requires planning permission for all new HMOs in these wards, allowing for a case-by-case assessment of applications to better reflect local circumstances.
Concerns raised by objectors during the consultation included potential increased costs for landlords, impacts on housing supply and affordability, and additional administrative burdens. However, the council noted that compensation may be payable for the first 12 months if planning permission is refused for development that would have been permitted development but for the Article 4 Direction.
The move aims to give the council greater planning control over HMO development, addressing concerns about the cumulative impact of HMOs in high-concentration areas. Residents cited issues such as noise, waste, parking pressures, and anti-social behaviour, alongside concerns about poorly managed or unauthorised HMOs.
The council also highlighted the importance of maintaining community character and stability, particularly in family housing areas. The Article 4 Direction supports a case-by-case assessment of applications to better reflect local circumstances and protect tenants, especially vulnerable groups, through appropriate accommodation standards. It also aims to prevent the displacement of HMOs into less regulated areas and to protect the supply of family housing.
The decision was recommended to the full council for confirmation, making the Article 4 Direction permanent.
