Approval for Two New HMOs in Dover Sparks Community Concerns

Introduction
Dover District Council approved two HMOs on Castle Hill Road and Castle Street. The council aimed to meet housing needs while keeping the town’s spirit. Local groups and residents oppose the change. They claim more HMOs hurt the town feel.

Current Landscape of HMOs in Dover
Dover now has 66 HMOs. In one area, the Town and Castle ward, 31 properties serve as HMOs. The Dover Society says this high number is new in the district. They point out that 600 residents live in about 60 properties. This group worries that more HMOs can bring noise, litter, and bad behavior in tourist spots.

Community Opposition
The community spoke out on many occasions. The Castle Conservation Area Group said, "Castle Street is in a protected area and the most photographed street by visitors worldwide." They fear the plans may change the appeal of this historic street. Resident Vaughan Matthews said that rubbish seen in the area makes a bad impression. He believes the street must stay attractive for visitors.

Details of the Approved Applications
One building will now host eight residents. The other will host nine residents. The applications got seven and 20 objections each. Local resident Ashley Babbage thinks these buildings should change into family homes or flats. Despite the many objections, council officers backed both plans. They noted no signs of reduced living quality or harm to the look of the area. They added that new residents would not affect road safety or the streetscape.

Rising Demand for Affordable Housing
The discussion about HMOs shows a wider trend in the UK. High rents make more people seek other housing options. A KentOnline report shows there are nearly 2,000 HMOs in the area. Many see these homes as a way to cope with high expenses. Critics, however, call them "modern-day slums" because they worry about the mix of housing types.

Voices from the HMO Community
Some HMO residents say that sharing a home helps people come together. One resident said, “We may fight sometimes, but we get along.” Their words suggest that living in these homes can build a simple sense of community.

Conclusion
The approval of new HMOs in Dover shows the hard choices that face housing. The town must serve growing populations and keep its old charm. As Dover works through this issue, all groups must share their views so that the town can stay inviting for both residents and visitors.

Sources

• KentOnline: Dover’s HMO Situation
• Dover District Council Planning Portal: Planning Applications
• The Dover Society: Community Concerns
• Castle Conservation Area Group: Conservation Issues

The talks go on. Community, council, and developers must share views to keep Dover a place that feels right for those who live there and those who visit.