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Permitted Development Rights: Multiple Occupation

Asked by Sir Oliver DowdenConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 21 April 2026UIN 126626

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how many local authorities have introduced Article 4 directions to restrict the number of houses in multiple occupation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook

Since 1 January 2023, 45 local planning authorities have notified the Secretary of State of ‘Article 4’ Directions removing permitted development rights in relation to Houses in Multiple Occupation.

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