Residents Decry Landlord 'Greed' as Homes Convert to Shared Housing
Frustrated locals in Mansfield, Nottingham, say an increase in houses of multiple occupation is overwhelming their street, leading to parking chaos and a loss of community.
Residents of Princes Street in Mansfield, Nottingham, are calling for tighter regulations on houses of multiple occupation (HMOs), claiming a surge in conversions has transformed their neighborhood into 'HMO Street'. They allege that "greedy" landlords are prioritizing profit over community by converting family homes into shared accommodations, leading to significant disruptions.
On a street with approximately 42 properties, residents estimate that at least 15 have been converted into HMOs or flats, with more applications pending. The latest controversy surrounds the approval of plans to expand an existing six-bedroom HMO into a ten-person property and another application to convert a house into a six-person HMO, despite local objections.
Martin Radcliffe, a retired computer programmer who has lived on the street since 1990, stated that most houses sold in the last five years have become HMOs. He described how these properties, often purchased for around £132,000, are gutted and refitted with multiple bedrooms, sometimes accommodating up to ten people. Radcliffe highlighted the financial incentive, noting that a property could generate approximately £50,000 annually from multiple renters at £100 per week each, compared to traditional family rentals of £680 to £900 per month.
The primary concerns for residents are the logistical and social impacts of the increased density. Parking has become a major issue, with many residents struggling to find spaces after 5 p.m., and some unable to access their own driveways. Lorry driver Lonel Tolan, 35, reported instances of cars being parked inconsiderately, blocking driveways, and one car even colliding with a neighbor's wall.
Marius Oprea, 47, expressed fears that the problem will worsen without stricter council planning rules, noting that increased vehicle numbers sometimes block the street, hindering emergency services such as ambulances.
While residents emphasize that their complaints are not directed at the tenants themselves, many of whom appear to be key workers from the nearby Kings Mill Hospital, they lament the erosion of the neighborhood's community feel. The frequent turnover of tenants means neighbors often do not know who is living next door, contributing to a sense of anonymity and disconnection.
"The biggest negative for us is the parking," Radcliffe said. "HMOs seem to be breaking down the community because no one knows who you're living next door to anymore."
One resident described the situation as "getting to the point where it can go on for too long and there's no turning back." Others pointed to overflowing bins and the potential for vermin as consequences of the increased occupancy.
A spokesperson for Mansfield District Council acknowledged the residents' concerns and stated that the council is currently reviewing HMO numbers, distribution, and trends across the district. The council currently operates statutory HMO licensing and a selective licensing scheme in five areas to ensure the safety and management of privately rented properties. Official records indicate three licensed HMOs on Princes Street, with three more applications in process. Any other HMOs on the street do not currently meet the threshold for requiring a license.