Row over Liverpool HMO control rollout

Councillors are divided over how quickly tighter controls on shared housing should be introduced across Liverpool.

Liverpool City Council has approved plans requiring planning permission before some homes can be converted into houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) in more neighbourhoods.

Liberal Democrat councillors say the restrictions should be introduced across the whole city immediately.

Labour says its phased approach will extend protections to additional areas while wider measures are prepared.

The Liberal Democrats have called in the decision, meaning the council will be asked to reconsider the plans approved last week.

The changes would apply in a number of additional areas, including Kirkdale, Everton, County, Walton, Orrell Park, parts of Fazakerley, Old Swan, Stoneycroft, Calderstones and Sefton Park.

Liberal Democrat group leader Carl Cashman said introducing the measures in stages would leave some communities without protection and could encourage developers to focus on other parts of the city.

"Labour isn't solving the problem, it's moving it to new areas of the city," he said.

"Residents on one street now get a say on HMOs. One street over, it's a free-for-all for the next year. Everyone knows what will happen next."

A Labour spokesperson said the call-in risked delaying protections due to come into force on 20 October.

The council plans to extend the controls across the whole city next year.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.