Stop the Proliferation of HMOs in Garston - Extend Article 4 Direction
The Issue
Stop the Proliferation of HMOs in Garston – Extend Article 4
Increasing numbers of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are appearing in Garston, Liverpool. While we understand the need for affordable and flexible housing, the unchecked proliferation of HMOs can change the character of an area—reducing the number of family homes and putting a strain on local services and infrastructure.
This petition is not directed at people living in HMOs. Everyone deserves a safe home. Our concern is with uncontrolled development at the expense of the existing community and the sustainability of local services.
Why this matters for Garston
Uncontrolled HMO growth brings added pressure on:
Council resources and enforcement capacity (planning, housing standards, environmental health).
Existing infrastructure, especially refuse and recycling collection, leading to overflowing bins and increased fly-tipping.
On-street parking availability, increasing congestion and safety concerns.
The condition of local roads and pavements due to higher density usage and more frequent vehicle movements.
Access to GP and dental services, schools, and other community amenities.
What’s worked elsewhere
Neighbouring Sefton MBC has implemented an Immediate Article 4 Direction in the Aintree area to remove permitted development rights that allow conversion from dwellinghouses (C3) to small HMOs (C4) without planning permission.
What we’re asking Liverpool City Council to do
Extend Article 4 Direction to the Garston ward to remove permitted development rights for HMO conversions.
Require full planning applications for all new HMOs and intensifications, enabling proper community consultation and assessment of cumulative impacts.
Monitor and manage concentrations of HMOs to protect housing mix and neighbourhood character.
Align refuse collection, parking management, and highways maintenance plans with the higher-density pressures HMOs create.
Call to action
Sign this petition to urge Liverpool City Council to:
Introduce an Article 4 Direction covering Garston.
Prioritise sustainable planning that protects family housing, ensures adequate services, and maintains safe, clean streets.
Together, we can balance housing need with the long-term health and character of our community.
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The Issue
Stop the Proliferation of HMOs in Garston – Extend Article 4
Increasing numbers of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are appearing in Garston, Liverpool. While we understand the need for affordable and flexible housing, the unchecked proliferation of HMOs can change the character of an area—reducing the number of family homes and putting a strain on local services and infrastructure.
This petition is not directed at people living in HMOs. Everyone deserves a safe home. Our concern is with uncontrolled development at the expense of the existing community and the sustainability of local services.
Why this matters for Garston
Uncontrolled HMO growth brings added pressure on:
Council resources and enforcement capacity (planning, housing standards, environmental health).
Existing infrastructure, especially refuse and recycling collection, leading to overflowing bins and increased fly-tipping.
On-street parking availability, increasing congestion and safety concerns.
The condition of local roads and pavements due to higher density usage and more frequent vehicle movements.
Access to GP and dental services, schools, and other community amenities.
What’s worked elsewhere
Neighbouring Sefton MBC has implemented an Immediate Article 4 Direction in the Aintree area to remove permitted development rights that allow conversion from dwellinghouses (C3) to small HMOs (C4) without planning permission.
What we’re asking Liverpool City Council to do
Extend Article 4 Direction to the Garston ward to remove permitted development rights for HMO conversions.
Require full planning applications for all new HMOs and intensifications, enabling proper community consultation and assessment of cumulative impacts.
Monitor and manage concentrations of HMOs to protect housing mix and neighbourhood character.
Align refuse collection, parking management, and highways maintenance plans with the higher-density pressures HMOs create.
Call to action
Sign this petition to urge Liverpool City Council to:
Introduce an Article 4 Direction covering Garston.
Prioritise sustainable planning that protects family housing, ensures adequate services, and maintains safe, clean streets.
Together, we can balance housing need with the long-term health and character of our community.
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Petition created on 29 August 2025