Article 4 Enforced in Wigan and Tameside Oldham Sets 2026 Deadline
September 24, 2025
Property investors and landlords in Greater Manchester have been caught off guard by sudden policy shifts on Article 4 directions. On July 15th, Wigan Council enforced Article 4 with zero notice, creating immediate restrictions on HMO development. On the very same day Tameside also enforced Article 4. In contrast, Oldham Council has taken a more measured approach by announcing that its Article 4 direction will not take effect until 1 January 2026.
What Enforcement of Article 4 in Wigan Means
Article 4 directions remove permitted development rights, particularly when converting family homes into Houses in Multiple Occupation. By enforcing Article 4 on July 15th without warning, Wigan Council has made it mandatory for landlords and developers to apply for full planning permission before pursuing new HMO projects. The lack of notice has left many investors scrambling to adjust their plans.
Tameside Also Enforces Article 4
Tameside Council has followed the same route, enforcing Article 4 immediately. This decision shuts down fast track HMO development in the borough and increases the barriers to entry for both new and experienced landlords.
Oldham Sets Article 4 Start Date for 2026
Oldham Council has provided more breathing space. Its Article 4 direction will not come into effect until 1 January 2026. This creates a short but clear investment window for landlords who want to take advantage of permitted development rights before the restrictions tighten.
Why We Do Not Develop in These Areas
While sudden changes often draw attention, they also attract a surge of deal sourcers, deal packagers and HMO developers all rushing to capitalise on the headlines. This flood of activity creates overcrowded markets where sustainable returns are more difficult to achieve.
At Foot Forward Properties we avoid chasing these areas. Instead, we remain focused on South Yorkshire where the HMO market is not oversaturated and where competition is less aggressive. By doing so we continue to deliver high quality projects that are built for long term performance rather than quick wins in overheated markets.
Final Word
The enforcement of Article 4 in Wigan and Tameside, alongside Oldham’s planned 2026 enforcement, shows just how quickly the rules for HMO development can change. For many landlords it is tempting to follow the crowd, but experience shows that oversaturated markets rarely deliver the strongest results.
Our focus remains firmly in South Yorkshire where the balance of opportunity, demand and sustainable growth is much stronger. To see our current HMOs for sale, visit Foot Forward Properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Article 4 direction
An Article 4 direction is a planning regulation that removes permitted development rights. This often applies to HMO conversions which means you must apply for planning permission before carrying out the work.
What happened in Wigan on July 15th
Wigan Council enforced Article 4 with no prior notice. From that date, all new HMO developments require full planning permission.
What does Article 4 in Tameside mean for landlords
Tameside has also enforced Article 4 which means landlords can no longer rely on permitted development rights for HMO conversions. Full planning applications are now required.
When does Oldham Article 4 come into effect
Oldham Council has announced that Article 4 will take effect on 1 January 2026. This gives landlords a limited window to act before the restrictions apply.
Why is South Yorkshire better for HMO development than Greater Manchester
South Yorkshire is not oversaturated with HMOs and does not attract the same wave of deal sourcers and developers as Greater Manchester. This makes the market more stable and creates better opportunities for sustainable long term returns.
Where can I find HMOs for sale in South Yorkshire
You can explore our available investment opportunities by visiting Foot Forward Properties HMO for sale page.