Development Management Committee

The City Council recess came to an end on Monday evening when there was a meeting of the Development Management Committee. The main item was a discussion about how the council deals with Section 75 agreements and subsequent appeals against their enforcement. Section 75 agreements occur when a development is allowed subject to certain conditions. Frequently in the West End this means an agreement that new houses cannot be used as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). I think that HMO legislation and regulation is good for the West End because it enforces standards, especially safety standards on rented accommodation. I think that it is very important that the West End has the correct mix between HMOs and permanent residents. Many, though not all, HMOs are occupied by students and there is no doubt that students and the university and college community in the West End contribute to the very attractive nature of the area. The West End should not be exclusively an area for student residences, a mix between HMOs and permanent residents is good for everyone. I hope that the reports which were put before the committee on Monday evening mean that the council can continue to implement these section 75 agreements and in the West End that the council can continue to try and protect the vibrant nature of our community.