New House Shares Raise Concerns Over Community Identity in Guildford
Residents on Applegarth Avenue in Guildford worry about new house shares. They see these houses as a move from family homes to rentals. The council approved four new HMOs. This move makes some fear that old family homes will soon be turned into rental flats that change the feel of the area.
Shift from Family Homes to HMOs
The number of HMOs now stands at 25, with two more cases waiting. During council meetings, people speak up and say the street may soon serve mainly young workers and students. One long-term resident, who has lived on the street for 20 years, said, “It used to be full of families, but now it’s just people who leave to work and come back again. Only one person says ‘hi’.” His words show that many feel they have lost part of what made their community special.
Council Response and Local Insights
Ward councillor Howard Smith calls the growth of HMOs his number one issue. He worries that the change from family homes to HMOs will shrink the feeling of community. Residents are tired of watching their houses get sold and turned into shared flats.
Council leader Julia McShane says that problems like parking trouble and noisy behavior occur in many areas. She notes that residents can report these matters to the council. Her comments make us ask if current housing rules truly support local life.
The HMO Landscape
HMOs provide affordable space for young people, students, and those who move often. In these houses, tenants rent a room and share spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. This living style sometimes brings noise and less connection among neighbors. It can also put pressure on local services.
For property owners, HMOs can mean higher rent than a family home. Still, a gap remains between earning money and keeping the neighborhood feel strong. Investors who think of buying into HMOs in Guildford must listen to local concerns and watch for changes in rules.
Future Considerations for Investors
Property buyers looking at HMOs must care about local views and the strength of community life. By talking with residents and knowing their ideas, investors can work to cut down opposition. This path may help bring together the goals of buyers and the needs of the neighborhood.
In short, the rise of HMOs on Applegarth Avenue has raised deep concerns about the local identity. With the latest council approvals allowing more changes, ongoing talks between residents, the council, and property buyers will shape the area’s future.
For further information on the rules and effects of HMOs, resources such as Guidance on Houses in Multiple Occupation and local council guidelines may provide useful details.
Sources:
- BBC News – Guildford Housing Concerns
- Local Government Association – Housing and Communities
- GOV.UK – Houses in Multiple Occupation
- National HMO Network – HMO Investing
This situation changes often for both current and future property buyers in Guildford. Keeping up with local views will be very important as the HMO market grows.
