Chorley Council has introduced new planning rules to help manage the distribution and quality of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), across the borough.
The decision, which was approved at a full council meeting yesterday, 23 September, means that an Article 4 Direction will come into force immediately from today, 24 September. Anyone wanting to turn a regular house into a HMO (for three to six people who aren’t related and share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms) will need to apply for planning permission. This change applies to all areas of Chorley.
Before now, these changes could be made without planning permission under ‘permitted development rights’. The new rule removes that automatic right so the council can look more closely at each proposal. Larger HMOs for more than six unrelated people already require planning permission.
This change will help the council keep track of HMOs, and through our licensing function, make sure they are properly managed, and ensure they meet good living standards.
It also means future planning policies, like those in the emerging Central Lancashire Local Plan, can apply to small HMOs, which have not previously needed planning permission.
Planning permission can still be granted where proposals are suitable and help meet local housing needs.
Executive Member for Planning and Development, Councillor Alex Hilton, said: “We want to make sure that HMOs in Chorley are safe, well-managed, and fits in with the needs of our communities.
“This new planning rule gives us the ability to look at each proposal properly, and make sure that locally-set policies can be used to guide their development.
“It’s about getting the balance right and supporting the need for single person housing while protecting the character of our neighbourhoods.
If you want to share your views on this policy, then you can submit your comments until Thursday, 16 October 2025. All comments received by the deadline will be considered before a final decision is made. Submit your views: https://yoursay.citizenspace.com/spatial-planning-c/hmo-article4 or by post to: Planning Policy Team, Civic Offices, Union Street, Chorley, PR7 1AL.
You can view the full direction and a map of the affected area online at chorley.gov.uk/planningpolicynews, or in person at Chorley Town Hall or the Civic Offices, Union Street, Chorley, PR7 1AL, during normal opening hours.