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Archive for the ‘Landlords’ Category
Proposals for Licensing Passed….?
Tuesday, August 17th, 2010
Oxford City Council’s proposals for extending the licensing of HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation) have now been put to elected members in a 135 page document. There is now some clarity about fees (table 4,5 and 6) and a proposed commencement date of 25th October 2010. It is unfortunate that the Environmental Development department have…
Rental Market Buoyant!
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010
Two reports published recently highlight the increase in demand for private rented property. Countrywide and the Paragon Group have both publicised a continued increase in applicant numbers. This level of demand is having a significant impact on the market, with properties being snapped up on average within two weeks – three days less that in…
Successful Appeal Against New HMO Legislation
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010
A recent planning appeal decision has, according to some commentators, further reduced the impact of the HMO planning instrument of 6th April. Writing in Planning Magazine, Stephen Ashworth explains use classes order rules only require permission for “development” that includes material changes of use and that the legislation says a change of use in each…
Grant Shapps listening?
Thursday, June 17th, 2010
Grant Shapps has made an announcement that would indicate that he has heard some of the concerns expressed about the planning instrument and the C4 usage. I have reprinted the announcement in full below………. The Minister for Housing and Local Government (The Rt Hon Grant Shapps): Today I am announcing the Government’s intention to amend…
More Control of Private Sector Housing?
Friday, May 14th, 2010
Yesterday Oxford City Council hosted a Landlords forum with a presentation on the new Planning instrument and introducing the consultation on the extension of the licensing of HMOs in the city. Planning Discussion was heated and some interesting anomalies were exposed that will need case law to direct on. It is clear that in certain…