Eastbourne Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) policy consultation

We have launched a consultation to seek feedback from local residents, businesses and other stakeholders on new planning approaches to address concerns around Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Eastbourne.

HMOs form an important part of the housing mix in Eastbourne. They do however have the potential to cause adverse impacts for residents and communities, particularly when in concentration.

We are inviting comments on a new HMO Development Plan Document (HMO DPD). This will provide updated planning policy requirements for proposals involving new or converted HMOs to mitigate negative impacts and improve the standard of accommodation for occupants.

At the same time, we are also inviting comments on the introduction of an Article 4 Direction that will remove permitted development right for small HMOs across Devonshire, Meads, Upperton and parts of St Anthonys. This would mean that all new HMOs across this area will be required to apply for planning permission.

We are asking for feedback on the issues and proposed policies so we can refine these before the HMO DPD is submitted to government for examination and considered ahead of the council deciding whether to confirm the Article 4 Direction.

Have your say

Consultation on the HMO DPD and Article 4 Direction will start on Friday 2 August and will run until 5pm on Friday 27 September 2024.

You can have your say on the HMO DPD or Article 4 Direction via our online consultation portal.

Visit our consultation portal

Alternatively you can email your comments to LocalPlan@lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk or write to us at: Planning Policy, Eastbourne Borough Council, Eastbourne Town Hall, Grove Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4UH

Paper copies of the HMO DPD and Article 4 Direction Notice are available to view at the Eastbourne Town Hall, Grove Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4UH

Drop-in consultation events

We have arranged a number of drop-in events to provide an opportunity to find out more about the HMO DPD and Article 4 Direction and speak with officers.

Three drop-in sessions will be held at Eastbourne Town Hall: