Spread of studentification in Chester could be halted by proposed planning measure

Halting studentification across Chester is the aim of a special planning measure that could be actioned by the council executive on Monday (March 9).

Such a so-called Article 4 direction is already in place in the Garden Quarter, near the University of Chester, where residents have long been concerned about a proliferation in houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) which, in many cases, are inhabited by students leading to a perceived imbalance in the community.

Article 4 means change of use planning consent must be obtained to convert properties into smaller HMOs, for between three and six occupants, in line with the rules for larger HMOs. This doesn’t mean such schemes will be refused and evidence shows every application in Garden Quarter since Article 4 was introduced has ultimately been approved.

Residents from other areas have nevertheless argued their neighbourhoods receive the same protection leading Cheshire West and Chester Council to consider extending Article 4 to King Street and Newry Park. A report before councillors will indicate the justification is not proved to usher in a city-wide scheme.

The move follows a recommendation from January’s Local Development Framework (LDF) panel which asked the executive to examine closely the adoption of an Article 4 direction, with immediate effect following pleas from residents, subject to a consideration of the compensation issues.

In the event some locals may be left disappointed because the executive will be asked to approve the Article 4 directions on a draft or non-immediate basis, allowing a 12-month notice period, to avoid any potential compensation claims from landlords.

Faye Mustill, chairman of the King Street Area Residents’ Association, who addressed the LDF panel, told members her neighbourhood was a city centre community in a conservation area with a high percentage of Grade II listed buildings.

Urging councillors to back an immediate Article 4 measure, she said: “We consider we are especially vulnerable to an increase in private sector student landlords. We are the closest residential area to the Garden Quarter.”

City centre member and Labour group leader Cllr Samantha Dixon, who supported residents in the desire for urgent action, said: “This particular area is right on the cusp of tipping from an area that’s ordinary residential into a typical student residential area so timing is very germane for this to happen now.”