Motion Calls For HMO Checks Across Causeway Coast and Glens

A proposal calling for checks on houses in multiple occupation and stronger regulation is to go before Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council next week.

The notice of motion, proposed by Councillor Kyle and seconded by Councillor McAuley, raises concerns about what it describes as an “upsurge” in HMO applications, particularly within the BT52 and BT55 postcode areas.

It will be presented to full council before being referred to the relevant committee for discussion.

The motion asks the council to write to Communities Minister Gordon Lyons seeking consultation on additional regulatory powers under section 12 of the Houses in Multiple Occupation (Northern Ireland) Act 2016.

It also proposes inviting Belfast City Council, identified in the motion as the agency equipped to undertake the work, to check compliance at properties currently listed as HMOs across the borough.

A further request would seek a thorough investigation into properties believed to be operating without regulation.

The proposal calls on the relevant Stormont departments to develop a robust policy for managing HMOs across Causeway Coast and Glens, while ensuring sufficient accommodation is available to support the university population.

Councillors would also receive updated figures showing the number of HMOs in each of the council’s district electoral areas.

Belfast City Council would be asked to confirm how many HMOs within the borough have already been inspected.

The proposals remain subject to consideration through the council process, with further discussion to take place at committee.