HMO in Falmouth Cornwall

HMO Licensing

Hello

I have a 3-bed flat in Falmouth, which has been an HMO for many years. As I understand it, the "Article 4 Direction" was implemented in Falmouth on June 16 2017.
Further, I understand that HMOs that existed before that date do not need to apply for planning permission. Is "planning permission" equivalent to an "HMO license" ?

Does anyone have a view about whether this pre-A4D dispensation is likely to be withdrawn in future ?

Does one need to register a 3-bed HMO, even though it does not need a license ?

One of the three bedrooms is slightly less than 7 sqm.... I guess that that may be a problem if/when the authorities start to license and inspect 3-bed HMOs. Has anyone had any experience of this ?

Thanks in advance !