Erewash Borough Council: Article 4 Direction for HMOs

What is the Erewash Article 4 direction?

Erewash Borough Council is currently consulting on a proposed Article 4 direction for houses in multiple occupation. If approved, planning permission will be required for conversions from Class C3 (dwellinghouses) to Class C4 (small HMOs) in Ilkeston, Long Eaton, Sawley, Sandiacre - removing the 'permitted development' right that currently allows this change.

Wards and areas covered

The Erewash Article 4 direction applies to the following wards and areas:

• Ilkeston
• Long Eaton
• Sawley
• Sandiacre

What this means for HMO investors

Because the Article 4 direction applies to specific wards or zones rather than the whole council area, the planning impact depends on the exact location of the property. Investors should check the precise postcode against Erewash's published map before assuming permission isn't required.

If you're considering acquiring or converting a property in Erewash, factor planning permission into your due-diligence timeline and budget. Refused applications can scupper a deal, and unauthorised conversions risk enforcement action and lender complications.