Concerns Grow Over HMO Developments in Surrey
The trend of Houses in Multiple Occupation grows in Surrey. Residents now worry about the effect on their community. News of new builds makes them fear that their streets might change like areas that now share many houses, such as Hounslow.
Understanding HMOs
HMOs stand as houses where several people share rooms for eating, bathing, and living. Students, young workers, and persons with less income often choose these homes for their lower cost. The cost savings draw many to these dwellings. This fact sparks debates on how these homes change established living areas.
Local Residents Voice Concerns
A resident of twenty years now thinks to sell his home. He learns that a nearby property will soon become an HMO for six persons. His words show that such changes add stress and harm his day-to-day peace. Neighbors share fears on issues like safety, noise, parking, and the strength of their community ties.
People in the area query how HMOs are run. They ask who will live in these homes and how they will soon mix with long-term residents. Fears grow that few rules could bring acts against community norms.
Planning and Regulatory Framework
Landlords meet strict rules when they change a home to an HMO. A licence must come when five or more people from different households live in one property. When six people share a house, rules demand an extra form of planning permission. This mix of rules brings many challenges in control and safe management.
The Spelthorne Borough Council stands in the line of public gaze for its slow reply. With close to 150 HMOs already on record, locals say that more acts of control must come to keep the situation in check. They point to other areas that have passed similar changes and now face hard times.
The Economic Consideration
Some residents want more rules to slow down HMOs. Yet, property owners sound a different note. One landlord states that stricter rules could cut down on more affordable homes. Low-income persons may then suffer from fewer rental choices.
Conclusion
The Planning Committee meets early in January 2025 to talk on the future of HMOs. All sides must sit down and talk while they look at what the community needs and how the local economy will work. People in the area hope that new plans can keep their streets safe and calm while still giving room to those in search of a cheaper home.
The debate on HMOs in Surrey shows a clear tension between a safe neighborhood and the need for cost-friendly homes. As talks go on, all must find ways that keep life steady and peaceful for everyone.
