Cllr Bolton Calls for Tougher HMO Rules Across Peterborough

Cllr John Bolton warns that rising HMOs are putting pressure on Peterborough’s streets, parking, and local services. He is calling for tougher rules to protect family homes and maintain neighbourhood balance.

Cllr Bolton Calls for Tougher HMO Rules Across Peterborough

Peterborough Councillor John Bolton says that across our community, more and more family homes are being converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation, commonly known as HMOs. He recognises that HMOs play an important role in providing accommodation for students, young professionals, and people on lower incomes, but when too many are concentrated in one area, the impact is felt by everyone.

Cllr Bolton recalls that when he owned an HMO in 1999, planning permission was required and strict safety and security measures had to be installed. The property could house only three people. Today, no planning permission is needed, and HMOs can accommodate up to six residents, a change that has significantly altered the balance within many neighbourhoods.

HMOs are increasing across Peterborough

He notes that the rapid rise in HMOs began in 2004, when national policy encouraged their expansion to support incoming workers. Since then, pressure on local infrastructure has steadily increased. Many council estates built in the 1960s were designed for one car per household, yet modern families often own two or more vehicles. Residents regularly raise concerns about parking pressures, increased waste management challenges, strain on local services, and the gradual loss of traditional family housing.

There have been several instances where uncontrolled parking has obstructed ambulances, fire engines, and refuse collection vehicles, preventing them from carrying out essential duties.

Cllr Bolton stresses that this is not about stopping HMOs altogether, it is about restoring balance. He is calling for stronger planning controls and tighter restrictions on new HMO developments in areas that are already saturated.

More control of HMOs across Peterborough is required

He believes Peterborough needs policies that protect existing communities, preserve family homes, and ensure any future HMO developments meet higher standards for space, property management, and neighbourhood impact.

“Our communities thrive when housing is diverse, well‑managed, and planned with local people in mind,” he says. “I will continue working with residents, planning authorities, and local partners to ensure future housing decisions put the interests of our community first.”

If you share these concerns, Cllr Bolton welcomes your views. Together, he says, we can create a balanced housing strategy that works for everyone.

Contact Cllr Bolton by clicking here