NEW powers controlling the growth of houses of multiple occupation in the Garden Quarter area of Chester are now in place.
Changes to planning restrictions will mean family homes cannot be converted into houses of multiple occupation without first applying for planning permission.
Under current rules landlords can convert family houses into bedsit accommodation for up to six people without needing planning permission.
Cheshire West and Chester Council’s executive unanimously backed the introduction of a direction bringing this change of use under full planning control in December.
The council has now put in place an article for direction meaning that from July 8 landlords will need to make a planning application to convert properties in this way.
Cllr Herbert Manley, executive member of prosperity, said: “Homes in multiple occupation are an important part of our overall housing stock but high concentrations of them in one area can undermine other residents’ enjoyment of their homes and neighbourhoods.
“We’ve listened very carefully to the concerns of all residents in the Garden Quarter area about the concentration of this type of accommodation there.
“In direct response to those concerns and the need for change, we have acted by putting an article four direction in place giving the council full planning control over any further proposals to convert family homes into bedsits.
“We are also carefully monitoring other parts of Chester to see if other concentrations may arise where the council may need to take similar action in the future.”