Permitted Development rights
Harrow Council is moving to remove permitted development rights for small Houses in Multiple Occupation, while Kingston Council debates stricter regulations.
Harrow Council is set to implement tighter regulations on small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), addressing concerns about local amenity. In June 2026, its Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed a proposed borough-wide Article 4 Direction. This direction would remove permitted development rights for converting dwelling houses into small HMOs, properties occupied by three to six unrelated individuals.
The expansion of HMOs created under national permitted development rules is a key concern for councils. In October 2025, Kingston Council debated stricter regulations, with a motion noting that many smaller HMOs can be created without planning permission, impacting community cohesion and local services.
Permitted development rights, which allow certain building works or changes of use without a full planning application, continue to be a focus for councils considering local impacts. No upcoming meetings are currently scheduled to discuss this topic.
Key facts
- Harrow Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed a proposed Article 4 Direction in June 2026. Source
- The proposed Article 4 Direction would remove permitted development rights for converting dwelling houses into small HMOs. Source
- Harrow Council is set to implement tighter regulations on small Houses in Multiple Occupation. Source
- Kingston Council debated stricter regulations on Houses in Multiple Occupation in October 2025. Source
- A motion to Kingston Council noted many smaller HMOs can be created without planning permission under national rules. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.