Planning Inspector Rejects HMO Appeal in Eastbourne
A planning inspector dismissed a claim from a property group on Rylstone Road. The group sought permission for an HMO in a building that once served as a family home. This decision may affect many property investors who think about using HMOs in Eastbourne.
Background of the Case
The property at 14 Rylstone Road changed from a family home to a seven-bedroom shared space during the second half of 2018. Star Property, the owners, soon learned that formal permission was needed. They sent in a late planning application in May 2024.
The council turned down the request in August 2024. They pointed to the low quality of the space. Four of the seven bedrooms had little or no natural light, which raised serious concerns about the living conditions.
Findings of the Planning Inspector
The planning inspector looked at the facts and agreed with the council about the overall quality. He found that only the rear basement room lacked enough light.
In his official statement, he said:
"I looked at the overall condition of the accommodation and used this view to assess the living spaces as a whole. I considered the shared areas outside the bedrooms, which seem adequate. But I find the rear basement room very poorly lit. This situation makes the living conditions unacceptable."
In the end, the inspector agreed with the council’s worries, and the appeal was dismissed.
Implications for HMO Investors
Investors and future HMO owners must note this decision. It shows that property must meet local housing rules. HMOs grow in popularity because they can bring in rental income, especially in urban settings. The rejection reminds everyone that building rules and local planning laws must be followed.
Owners must watch the quality of the homes they rent. Rules on natural light, space, and overall living conditions help decide an application’s fate. Prospective buyers should check all details before buying a property to convert into an HMO.
This case also shows the value of expert advice when handling planning permission. Speaking with local planning teams early can lower the risk of a rejected application and high costs later.
Conclusion
The loss of the HMO appeal in Eastbourne is a warning for today and future HMO investors. Meeting local housing standards helps secure planning permission. This case shows that both local councils and planning inspectors give priority to good living conditions.
For more information on this issue, check application reference 240288 on the Eastbourne Borough Council planning portal and keep up with local planning rules.
References
- Eastbourne Borough Council. (2024). Planning Applications. Eastbourne Borough Planning Portal
- SussexWorld. (2025). "Planning Inspector Turns Down Eastbourne House in Multiple Occupation Appeal." SussexWorld
- The Planning Inspectorate. (2023). Reports on HMO regulations. Planning Inspectorate
