MP Antonia Bance Calls for Action on Unlicensed HMOs in Tipton and Wednesbury

MP Antonia Bance has pledged to continue pressing local authorities and ministers over concerns surrounding Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Tipton and Wednesbury, as residents report increasing problems linked to some poorly managed properties.

The Labour MP said constituents have raised concerns about a growing number of HMOs that are allegedly operating without licences or are being poorly managed, resulting in anti-social behaviour, excessive noise, parking pressures, waste collection issues and wider impacts on established residential communities.

Bance said she has formally contacted the local authority seeking information on the number of licensed HMOs operating within the constituency and the enforcement action being taken against landlords who fail to comply with regulations.

The MP revealed she has also raised concerns regarding specific properties that residents say are causing significant disruption to neighbouring households.

Among the measures being explored is the introduction of an Article 4 Direction covering Tipton and Wednesbury. If introduced, the planning mechanism would require smaller HMOs to obtain planning permission before operating, giving the council greater control over the concentration of such properties within local neighbourhoods.

MP Anthonia Bance has addressed growing concerns over HMOs in Tipton and Wednesbury, outlining what action is being taken and what residents can do. Watch her full report below.

According to Bance, progress on the proposal has been delayed while authorities await completion of the local plan process. However, she has urged the council to begin gathering evidence now so work can move forward without further delay.

Speaking about the issue, Bance acknowledged the limits of her role as an MP but insisted she would continue applying pressure wherever possible.

She said she cannot direct either the council or the police to take enforcement action, but pledged to continue raising residents' concerns, seeking answers from local agencies and exploring every available avenue to tackle the issue.

The MP also confirmed she intends to raise the matter at a national level. Once Parliament returns, she plans to seek a debate on HMOs and press ministers directly for a response on the challenges facing communities affected by poorly managed shared accommodation.

Bance said she would also support any future application for an Article 4 Direction, describing it as a measure she has backed since being elected.

Addressing concerns raised by some residents, the MP rejected suggestions that planning controls governing HMOs have recently been relaxed.

"There has been no loosening of planning rules for HMOs under this Government," she said.

Residents experiencing issues linked to HMOs are being encouraged to report them to the council, West Midlands Police and the MP's office. Bance said the collection of evidence remains essential in securing enforcement action, including community protection notices where appropriate.

While acknowledging there are no immediate solutions, the MP said she remains committed to pursuing the issue on behalf of local residents.

"There are no quick fixes here, but I am doing everything I can and will continue pushing both the council and West Midlands Police to do the same."