In effect, the Council want to restrict   the density of HMO’s in Cathays & Roath to 20%, (and to 10% in other wards).  This means that within Cathays or Plasnewydd, if more than 20% of the dwellings within a 50 metre radius of the proposed HMO are already licenced HMO’s  (C4 or sui generis in planning terms) , the  proposed new development would be considered unacceptable and planning would be refused.

Please take time to read the consultation – it contains some interesting stats – for example, did you know that Cardiff is home to a third of Wales’ total number of HMO’s!

77% of people in Cathays are aged between 15 and 29 – the city average is 28%.

Only 4.5% of people in Cathays are aged 0 – 15 – the city average is 17%.

Over density of HMO’s in these two areas have been cited in various studies as the reasons for increased waste/litter problems, parking issues, higher proliferation of vacant properties at certain times of the year  leading to an increase in  crime – ie burglaries, plus a more transient population which is less popular with local residents.

As per previous information I have sent around, this new C4 planning classification is going to drastically alter how investors/landlords are able to develop their properties. 

You can read the full consultation documents here: https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Planning/Planning-Policy/Supplementary-Planning-Guidance/Pages/Consultations.aspx