Eastbourne council takes action over shared houses

Action is being taken against problems caused by Eastbourne's growing number of HMOs

A district council has approved plans to take action against problems by houses in multiple occupation (HMO).

Eastbourne Borough Council commissioned a study into the number of HMOs in the area and the effect they were having on their communities.

The authority has agreed to measures to deal with parking issues and to streamline the system for monitoring complaints.

It also intends to extend the rules and conditions covering applications for new HMOs.

The measures have been approved by the council's cabinet.

Peter Diplock, cabinet member for housing, said: "HMOs provide an important part of the housing offer in Eastbourne, especially for people whose housing options are limited, such as young professionals, students and those on low incomes who are unable to afford their own self-contained accommodation.

"However, standards have fallen below expected levels in some areas, with properties not being properly maintained and there has been an increase in anti-social behaviour in a number of locations."

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