MP wants selective licensing from Ashfield Council on all Hucknall HMOs

And she has warned that poorly-managed properties are putting increasing pressure on local communities, echoing concerns consitently raised by residents and town councillors.

In a letter to Coun Samanthan Deakin (Ash Ind) Ashfield Council leader, Ms Welsh (Lab) raised serious concerns about the growing number of HMOs in the town, with at least 50 understood to be in operation as of August this year.

She warned that the number of HMOs is becoming increasingly concerning for a town of Hucknall’s size, with poorly-managed properties contributing to overcrowding, inadequate living conditions, increased waste, parking pressures and a growing increase of anti-social behaviour.

Michelle is demanding urgent action from the council to introduce selective licensing for all HMOs across the whole of Hucknall.

While recognising that HMOs provide an important source of accommodation for people who may otherwise struggle to access affordable housing, Michelle stressed that this must not come at the expense of decent housing standards or the quality of life of existing residents.

She also highlighted the importance of protecting affordable family homes and ensuring that neighbourhoods remain safe, attractive and well-managed places to live.

Ms Welsh MP said: “I am calling on the council to introduce a selective licensing scheme for all HMOs across the whole of Hucknall. We need action now to protect residents, improve standards and ensure landlords are doing the right thing.

“With at least 50 HMOs in the town, we need to see proper oversight and accountability.

Overcrowding, rubbish, parking pressures and anti-social behaviour should not become accepted parts of life for our communities.

“I want Hucknall to remain a place where people are proud to live, with strong, settled and safe neighbourhoods and decent housing.

"The council must act now.

The MP has asked the council to act urgently and bring forward proposals for a scheme at the earliest opportunity.

John Bennett, Ashfield Council’s executive director of place, said: “Ashfield Council’s cabinet has already recognised the challenge of the increasing number of HMOs in the district and work is underway to build a solid evidence base which would be required to justify action such as a selective licensing scheme or planning measures.

"HMOs play an important role in providing affordable housing options in the district at a time when many people are struggling with the high cost of living.

"Data shows that the district, including Hucknall, has a low number of HMOs compared to other areas of the county.”