SIR – Re the concern about the implementation of Article 4 controlling homes of multiple occupation (HMP).
The Government introduced this policy a few years ago and then had to retract it as there was insufficient accommodation available for individuals who could only afford this level of accommodation cost.
One only has to walk around St John’s in Worcester to observe the numerous ‘unlet’ advertising boards to establish that since the rise in university fees, students are now localising themselves to avoid accommodation expenses.
HMO accommodation is not solely about accommodation for students – it is about its availability to everyone in the community, including professionals.
The implementation of Article 4 will generate a decline in residential property values.
The implementation of Article 4 will serve as a means to gradually reduce HMO accommodation and be a further attack on the poorest in our society.
At this present time the HMO situation in this city requires no interference from the planning committee.
MALCOLM A THOMPSON
Worcester
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