Have your say on tightening HMO planning rules
East Riding of Yorkshire CouncilNew rules could be brought in to control the conversion of properties into Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Goole due to safety concerns over flooding.
At the moment, buildings with fewer than six residents can be converted without needing planning permission.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council is launching a public consultation on whether all proposed HMOs in an area of the town prone to flooding should require approval.
The council said it would apply to a Rapid Inundation Zone around the River Ouse, the Dutch River and the docks, which has been identified in a flood report "as an area of significant danger to people and property".
"Small HMOs often use all rooms including ground‑floor rooms as bedrooms, which can put occupants at particular risk during flooding incidents and limit access to safe upper‑floor area," the council said.
If approved, the Article 4 Direction would mean each development would be subject to a flood risk assessment before planning permission was granted.
Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for planning, said: "We're dedicated to supporting thriving communities across the East Riding and taking appropriate actions to protect public safety.
"We encourage interested residents to participate in the consultation and have their voices heard."
Details about the consultation is available on the council's website.
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