I am a resident of Wallsend, and I am deeply concerned about the increasing number of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) being allowed in family flats on our terraced streets. This trend is not only disrupting the community fabric but also putting undue pressure on local resources.

According to a report by Shelter, HMOs can often lead to overcrowded living conditions and can negatively impact the quality of life for both tenants and neighbours (Shelter, 2018). In addition, allowing HMO conversions in family flats could potentially reduce available housing for families who need it most.

HMO conversions in terraced houses mean big profits for private landlords and big savings for councils who want to accomodate individuals as cheaply as possible. But without the proper implementation of planning policy, such conversions cause huge suffering. Including HMO tenants, families, neighbours and whole neighbourhoods.

Family flats are effectively becoming 7 or 8 homes in one flat with one or sometimes no communal areas, this comes with a high risk to not only the tenants themselves but increases the likelihood of nuisance, litter, parking issues, anti-social behaviour and unrest. Whole neighbourhoods are at risk of losing their sense of community due to the disproportionate burden of these things.

Our terraced streets are traditionally home to close-knit communities. The influx of transient tenants that often comes with HMOs can disrupt this sense of community. Furthermore, these changes could potentially lead to increased noise levels and parking issues.

We urge our council to reconsider their policies regarding granting permissions for HMO conversions within family flats on terraced streets. We believe that maintaining a balance between different types of housing is crucial for preserving the character and harmony of our neighbourhood.

Please sign this petition if you share these concerns about maintaining the quality of life in Wallsend's residential areas. Your support will send a strong message to our council that we value our community's character and well-being above all else.