In South Tyneside, the recent invoking of Article 4 Direction has raised significant concerns among local residents . We Ask south Tyneside council to review the consequences of article 4 direction more urgently than 6 months from invoking it, as the unintended consequences are already becoming apparent across the borough, article 4 was invoked as a way to reduce the volume of HMOS across the borough however the unintended consequences are already apparent and include more large HMOS (Sui genris)  because the cost and application process are now the same for both large and small HMOs most landlords are opting for large as a way to recoup the cost of the application and will pay for any renovation via rental price increases, these lager HMOs being squeezed into smaller properties are going to create more of what was intended to be avoided and reduce living standards and increase rental costs in the borough. Without further regulations on what is acceptable we fear that article 4 if left for 6 months or more will do more harm than good 



Given these pressing issues, it is crucial that South Tyneside Council conducts an expedited review of Article 4 Direction. A wait of six months from the policy's initiation is too long, considering the immediate and adverse effects on our community. By reviewing and addressing these issues promptly, the council can mitigate negative impacts, provide clarity and support to local residents, and ensure that the original intent of preserving our cultural heritage and living standards does not come at the cost of our community's cohesiveness and development aspirations.

We urge South Tyneside Council to prioritize this review to devise practical solutions. Please join us in calling for a swift and thorough review and sign this petition to make our collective voice heard.