Over the years Mike Smith has become a specialist in HMO planning law, with a proven record of securing permissions in Nottingham, one of the UK’s most restrictive Article 4 planning authorities. Nottingham City Council routinely refuses new and intensified HMO applications, even where proposals are policy-compliant.
Through word of mouth & his Estate Agency. Mike has provided planning consultancy services for many clients and obtained lawful use certificates on numerous HMOs for clients and has a 100% record in obtaining the requested permissions. Mike has also successful challenged Nottingham City Council at the Planning Inspectorate (the highest planning authority in the land) twice and won. He is proud to have stood up for the Landlord community against the Council’s improper application of planning law.
Beech Avenue Example: Planning Inspectorate Appeal
This example case involved a 6-bedroom HMO seeking planning consent to become a 7-bedroom Sui Generis HMO. Despite a strong and well-evidenced case, supported by comparable decisions, the council refused the application.
Mike prepared and pursued a detailed planning law appeal, challenging the council’s interpretation of policy and the lawful application of Article 4 controls. The Planning Inspectorate allowed the appeal, overturning the refusal in full. The full documents can be downloaded on the links below.
Mike is available for paid consultancy on HMO Planning law, HMO appeals, and HMO lawful use matters relating to Article 4 Directives and other HMOs.