I am a resident of Church, Accrington, living alone on a small street. My life was peaceful until the sudden increase in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) approved by our local council. This change has not only disrupted the tranquility of our community but also raised safety concerns for my partner who planned to move in with me.

The proliferation of HMOs has brought about an influx of transient tenants and exacerbated parking issues due to increased vehicle numbers. It's not just about aesthetics or convenience; it's about preserving the character and safety of our neighbourhood.

According to data from The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), there are over 497,000 HMOs across England as at 2018. While they provide affordable housing solutions for many people, their concentration should be regulated especially on small streets like ours where they can cause significant disruption.

We urge the council to reconsider their policies regarding HMO approvals and establish stricter regulations that take into account the impact on small communities like ours in Church, Accrington. We need your support to maintain our quality of life and ensure that everyone feels safe within their own homes.

Please sign this petition if you believe that we deserve better control over how our community evolves.