Rising Concerns Over HMOs in Surrey: Neighbours Fear Their Community Will Decline
Residents in Sunbury, Surrey now worry about changes in their area. They note more HMOs are beginning nearby. They fear the local scene will mirror parts of Hounslow that now face many problems.
Counters to Community Concerns
Richard Evans, a long-time resident, sees a plan to change the cottage next door into a six-person home. He has lived there for 20 years. His stress grows with the plan. He asks, "How many people will live there? How many cars will fill the street? How many bins do we need?"
HMOs share simple spaces like kitchens and lounges. They attract students and young workers with lower rent. When five people from different families live in a home, a license is needed. Yet, a permit only comes with six or more residents. This gap leaves locals like Evans with little say.
The Developer’s Approach
The builder now alters the rooms inside the old home and adds a new section where the garage was. Even though HMOs follow strict safety rules, residents see crowded homes as a source of stress and problems such as unwanted behaviour. Evans’ sister adds that neighbors have built a close bond over the years. She fears new residents will not share this bond. "Everyone knows each other here," she says.
Council Response on HMO Regulation
Councillor Harry Boparai asks for firmer control. He sees Sunbury growing with HMOs in a way that reminds him of past troubles in Hounslow. He notes more noise, litter, and disturbance. Many residents share his view. Spelthorne Borough Council has licensed nearly 150 HMOs. They also note about 70 unlicensed ones. The council can only act when strong evidence from locals is shown. So far, formal complaints have been few.
Some landlords worry that extra limits might push up costs and leave lower-income people without home choices.
Future Considerations
Spelthorne Borough Council meets on January 8, 2025, to talk about new rules. In some wards, a permit is now asked for if up to six people live in a home. With talks still in progress, residents like Evans wonder how their way of living will change. Local home life now faces many questions as change comes.
Conclusion
HMOs in Surrey spark worry among locals in Sunbury. Neighbours now ask if their home can keep its close ties while housing needs stretch. Some call for firmer rules to protect the local life. Others point to the need for more choices for people with less money. The next council meeting may shape how home life and new housing join together.
For more information on HMOs and property rules, see sources from Surrey Live, BBC News, and UK Government Housing Policies.
Disclaimer: This article has been generated by AI based on the latest news from Google News sources. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying key details from official reports.
