park homes policy forum

national and local government

For National governance - see buttons above​​

Local Government Oversight

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Government guidance to local authorities regarding mobile home parks (often called "relevant protected sites") primarily focuses on three areas:

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• site licensing and conditions

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• regulatory framework and enforcement

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• and the "fit and proper person" test 

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1. The "Fit and Proper Person" Test

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Since 1 October 2021, site owners or managers in England must be assessed by their local authority to ensure they are suitable to manage a residential site. 

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• Assessment Criteria: Authorities must consider the person’s competence, business history, and criminal record.

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• Register Maintenance: Councils are required to keep a public register of those who pass the test.

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• Enforcement: Operating a site without a "fit and proper" manager is a criminal offence and can lead to unlimited fines or licence revocation.

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• Fees: Local authorities can charge for processing these applications, provided they have a published Fees Policy. 

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2. Site Licensing & Conditions

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All mobile home parks must have a site licence issued by the local authority. 

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• Licence Conditions: Councils can set conditions regarding the number of homes, spacing, fire safety, and site amenities.

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• Granting & Transfer: Guidance exists for authorities on processing new licence applications and transfers, including checking planning permission status.

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• Fee Setting: Authorities are empowered to charge for issuing, transferring, and monitoring licences. 

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3. Enforcement Powers

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Under the Mobile Homes Act 2013, local authorities have expanded tools to deal with poorly managed sites: 

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• Compliance Notices: Councils can issue notices requiring site owners to fix breaches of licence conditions.

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• Emergency Action: If there is an imminent risk of serious harm, the authority can enter a site to carry out necessary works and recover costs from the owner.

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• Prosecution: Councils can prosecute owners for operating without a licence or failing to comply with notices, which can lead to unlimited fines. 

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4. Support and Resources

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• LEASE - Park Homes: A government-funded service providing free advice to both residents and local authorities on park home law.

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• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber): The body responsible for settling disputes between residents, site owners, and local authorities regarding licensing or "fit and proper" decisions. 

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