Hertsmere Borough Council is inviting residents, businesses and stakeholders to take part in a public consultation on a proposed Article 4 Direction relating to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in parts of Potters Bar.
The consultation concerns proposals to remove permitted development rights that currently allow the change of use from a dwellinghouse (Use Class C3) to a small HMO (Use Class C4) without planning permission.
If confirmed, planning permission would be required for future changes from a family home to a small HMO within the following wards:
- Parkfield
- Oakmere
- Furzefield
- Bentley Heath & The Royds
The council says the proposed Direction is intended to help manage the concentration and distribution of HMOs in these areas and support consideration of impacts on local communities, housing mix and neighbourhood character through the planning process.
The consultation is now underway and will run until 17 June 2026.
Residents can view the consultation documents and complete an online survey via the council’s website:
All responses received during the consultation period will be considered before any decision is made on whether to confirm the Article 4 Direction. If confirmed, the Direction would come into force in May 2027.