Castleford is being overwhelmed by a growing number of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). These properties are often linked to anti-social behaviour, poor living standards, and in some cases, serious safeguarding concerns.

Residents are rightly concerned that vulnerable or high-risk individuals are being relocated here from other towns — without proper consultation or consideration for the safety and wellbeing of local families, schools, and elderly residents.

Wakefield Council say their hands are tied. We disagree. It’s time for action.

We, the undersigned, call on Wakefield Council to:

1. Suspend all new HMO licence approvals in Castleford (WF10) until a full review is completed.

2. Launch a public consultation on applying an Article 4 Direction, giving the Council the power to control the spread of HMOs.

3. Publish a public register of all licensed HMOs in the WF10 area, including landlord and management contact details (where lawful).

4. Step up inspections and enforcement on problematic HMOs, especially those linked to repeat crime or complaints.

5. Work with West Yorkshire Police to review how many registered sex offenders are being placed in shared housing locally — and what’s being done to keep our community safe.

We’re not against providing housing for those in need — but Castleford is not a dumping ground. We deserve safe streets, proper oversight, and a real say in what’s happening in our town.

If you care about Castleford, sign this petition and share it.

#CastlefordAgainstCrime #FixWF10