Bid to make HMO lawful that 'plays crucial role providing affordable housing' in city
The planning application was submitted by Mr Fernando Enrique Mendoza Contreras on June 6 this year for a lawful development certificate for a long-standing HMO at 4 Fields Road in Newport.
The application seeks legal recognition of the property's use as a C4-class HMO.
Mr Mendoza Contreras said the property has operated as a HMO since at least October 12, 2013.
This is before the introduction of Class C4 under Welsh planning regulations in 2015 and well before Mr Mendoza Contreras acquired the property in 2018.
The applicant said the property is run responsibly, with shared facilities and private rooms for tenants.
Weekly safety inspections are carried out by an estate agent, and the property complies fully with housing and safety regulations.
Mr Mendoza Contreras said: "The HMO plays a crucial role in providing affordable housing for students, young professionals, and individuals referred by local authorities."
"No complaints have been received from neighbours since 2018.
"We manage tenancy agreements properly, maintain strong community relations, and support tenants in achieving their personal goals."
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The application was prompted by a mortgage lender's request for planning documentation.
Upon consultation with local authority representatives, Mr Mendoza Contreras was advised to apply for a lawful development certificate to clarify the legal use of the property.
In support of the application, the applicant has submitted a copy of his Rent Smart Wales landlord licence which was granted on June 19, 2018, and was valid until June 18, 2023, with the property now under the care of an estate agent.
The licence confirms his compliance with the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 and adherence to the national Code of Practice.
No objections have been reported as part of the application to date.
A decision from Newport City Council is pending.
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