URL: https://democracy.darlington.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2006

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: The Cabinet Member with the Economy Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director of Economy and Public Protection to report the outcomes of the consultation on the draft houses in Multiple Occupations Planning Guidance and the proposed changes to be made and to seek approval on the final version of the Houses in Multiple Occupation Planning Guidance. It also seeks delegated authority for the Executive Director of Economy and Public Protection, in consultation with the Economy Portfolio Holder, to allow minor editorial amendments to the Houses in Multiple Occupation Planning Guidance prior to publication.   The report stated that Members may recall that in July’s Cabinet meeting, it was agreed to start the legal process of the introduction of an Article 4 Direction which would remove the permitted development rights, which allow the change of use from Use Class 3 to Use Class C4.   The report explained that it was agreed at that time that Supplementary Planning Guidance be prepared to assist property owners, planning applicants, planning officers and elected councillors in preparing, commenting on and determining planning applications. It said if the Article 4 Direction is confirmed to start on 28 July 2026, planning applications will be required for those smaller houses of multiple occupation.   The report outlined that the Government has decided to remove Supplementary Planning Documents from the suite of Development Plan Documents; this applies to anything not adopted by June 2026. It was said that the intention that the document will be published as Planning Guidance and available on the Council’s website and be a material consideration in making planning decisions.   The outcomes of the consultation were included in appendix 2 of the report.   RESOLVED - It is recommended that:-   (a)    Members consider the comments received on the Houses in Multiple Occupation Planning Guidance and the changes proposed and approve the final version of the document found at APPENDIX 1. (b)   Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Economy and Public Protection, in consultation with the Economy Portfolio Holder, to allow minor editorial amendments to the Houses in Multiple Occupation Planning Guidance prior to publication.   REASON - The recommendation is supported as the planning guidance is prepared to assist property owners, planning applicants, planning officers and elected councillors in preparing, commenting on and determining planning applications.  

Date of Decision: June 9, 2026