Consultation launched on planning guidance for Houses in Multiple Occupation

The consultation is open from 28 January to 25 February and is about a draft document, called a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), that explains the Council’s approach to homes that are shared by several unrelated people, such as shared houses or bedsits.

If the guidance is approved, it will be used when the Council decides future planning applications for HMOs. It explains what the Council will look at when deciding whether a proposal is acceptable.

HMOs help meet local housing needs, but if there are too many in one area or they are poorly designed, they can cause problems for neighbours. The draft guidance explains how the Council will assess applications, including issues such as:

• preventing too many HMOs in one area
• protecting neighbours from noise and disturbance
• ensuring rooms are a suitable size
• dealing with waste and recycling
• providing adequate parking
• making sure buildings are well designed

The Council wants to hear from local residents, businesses and other groups to make sure the guidance is fair, clear and reflects what matters most to the community.

Councillor John Turner, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, said:

“This consultation gives people a real opportunity to influence how HMOs are planned and managed in Spelthorne. We want to support different housing needs while also protecting the character and quality of life in our neighbourhoods, and we encourage everyone with an interest to take part and share their views.”

To take part in the consultation visit https://spelthorne.inconsult.uk/HMOSPD/consultationHome

If you need a printed copy, please call 01784 451499.

All feedback received during the consultation period will be considered before the guidance is finalised.

To report an unlicensed HMO, visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/report