19 September 2016
Proposals to introduce planning controls, through what is known as an Article 4 Direction, on the creation of more shared housing in two small parts of Norwich are to be reconsidered following a vote by the Labour cabinet at City Hall.
Green councillors have reacted with disappointment to the news that Norwich City Council has deferred any decision on introducing planning controls for new houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).
Greens had been pushing for an Article 4 Direction, which would mean planning consent was required for new HMOs, as part of a package of measures they want to see introduced to protect and improve housing quality. However, the Labour cabinet voted at its meeting on Wednesday to refer the proposal back to the council’s sustainable development panel for a rethink.
Councillor Denise Carlo, who represents Nelson ward, said: “It’s very disappointing that Labour have chosen to duck this issue rather than addressing residents’ concerns. A lot of residents in Nelson are very frustrated that the council has been dragging its feet on this issue for several years now.
“Councillor Stonard acknowledged at the meeting that an “HMO problem” exists, so it’s very dispiriting to see the cabinet not only reject this proposal, but fail to come up with any alternative ways of tackling the issue.”
Labour councillor Mike Stonard’s objection to the proposal was that by introducing an Article 4 Direction covering only a small area, “we run the risk of chasing the HMO problem around the city” as landlords look to other areas instead.
But Councillor Martin Schmierer, leader of the council’s Green Party group, said: “It’s true that planning controls in only a few streets would not be ideal. From the start, we have favoured an Article 4 Direction covering a wider area, but it was made clear that this was not an option the council was prepared to consider.
“It is a complex issue, and the needs of all residents must be taken into account, but simply kicking it into the long grass once again will do nothing to help the people of Norwich.”
