Tighter controls introduced for HMOs
An Article 4 Direction came into effect across Spelthorne on 13 March, meaning that planning permission is now required to convert a property into a House in Multiple Occupation occupied by three or more unrelated people. Previously, small HMOs accommodating up to six individuals could be created without planning permission under permitted development rights. The new direction removes those rights, so any property not already operating as an HMO with three or more occupants will now need full planning permission before it can be used in this way.
Planning permission has always been required for large HMOs (for seven or more occupants), and this requirement remains unchanged.
The new borough-wide direction follows earlier controls introduced in Staines, Ashford North & Stanwell South, and Stanwell North wards in August 2025, and now ensures a consistent approach to managing HMOs across all wards in Spelthorne.
Cllr Michele Gibson, Chair of Spelthorne Borough Council’s Planning Committee, said: “The borough-wide Article 4 Direction gives us an important tool to manage and control the development of HMOs. It will help ensure that the right balance is maintained in our communities while still allowing appropriate housing options where they are needed.”
Cllr Joanne Sexton, Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, said: “We know residents have raised concerns about the rapid growth of HMOs in some areas of the borough. Extending these planning controls across Spelthorne gives the Council the ability to properly consider the impact of new HMOs and ensure that any changes are appropriate for the neighbourhood and the local community.”
Cllr Chris Bateson, Deputy Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, said: “These new controls support our wider work to improve housing standards and respond to issues residents have raised about the impact of poorly managed HMOs. Requiring planning permission will allow us to take a more considered approach and help protect the character of our neighbourhoods.”
To find out more or report a problem with an HMO, visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/report or call 01784 451499