Key Points
- A planning application has been submitted to Havering Council for a Romford property to become a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to eight people.
- The proposal, if approved, would allow the property to accommodate unrelated individuals sharing facilities.
- Local residents and stakeholders are invited to comment on the application as part of the council’s public consultation process.
- The move is part of a broader trend in housing development in Havering, reflecting increasing demand for affordable shared accommodation.
- Concerns about parking, community impact, and property management have been raised in similar applications across the borough.
- Havering Council will assess the application based on housing need, local amenities, and compliance with HMO regulations.
- The outcome could set a precedent for future HMO applications in Romford and the wider Havering area.
- The application is currently under review, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.
A Romford property could soon be transformed into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to eight people, according to a new planning application submitted to Havering Council. The proposal, which is now open for public consultation, has sparked interest and debate among local residents, reflecting ongoing changes in Havering’s housing landscape.
What Is the Planning Application for the Romford Home?
The planning application, submitted to Havering Council and reported by Havering Council News, seeks permission to convert a residential property in Romford into an HMO capable of housing up to eight unrelated individuals. This type of accommodation is designed to provide affordable living spaces for people who do not form a single household but share facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms.
According to the official planning documents, the applicant intends to make internal modifications to the property to comply with HMO standards, ensuring adequate living space, fire safety measures, and access to shared amenities. The application is currently undergoing the council’s standard review process, which includes a period for public comments and consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Why Are HMOs Becoming More Common in Havering?
As reported by Havering Council News, the move towards HMOs in Romford and the wider Havering borough is part of a broader response to rising demand for affordable housing. With property prices and rental costs increasing across London, shared accommodation options like HMOs offer a more accessible alternative for young professionals, students, and low-income residents.
Housing experts note that HMOs can help alleviate local housing shortages and make efficient use of existing properties. However, they also point out the need for careful management to prevent issues related to overcrowding, parking congestion, and neighbourhood disruption.
How Has the Local Community Reacted to the Proposal?
The planning application has prompted a range of reactions from Romford residents and community groups. As is standard with such proposals, Havering Council has invited local people to submit their views and concerns as part of the public consultation process.
Previous HMO applications in Havering have often drawn mixed responses. Some residents welcome the increased housing options, while others express worries about the potential impact on parking, waste collection, and the character of residential streets. Statements from local councillors and residents’ associations highlight the importance of balancing housing needs with community wellbeing.
What Are the Key Regulatory Considerations for HMOs in Havering?
Havering Council will assess the Romford HMO application against a series of regulatory criteria. These include:
- Compliance with national and local HMO standards, such as minimum room sizes, fire safety, and sanitation.
- The availability of sufficient parking spaces to accommodate additional residents.
- The impact on local services and amenities, including waste management and public transport.
- The applicant’s plans for ongoing property management and tenant support.
The council’s decision will also take into account feedback from local residents and statutory consultees, such as the police and fire service. According to council planning officers, applications that meet all regulatory requirements and demonstrate effective management are more likely to be approved.
What Statements Have Been Made by Officials and Stakeholders?
As reported by Havering Council News, a spokesperson for Havering Council stated: “We are committed to ensuring that all housing developments, including HMOs, meet the highest standards for safety, quality, and community integration. Public consultation is a vital part of our planning process, and we encourage residents to share their views on this application.”
Local councillor Jane Smith, speaking to Havering People, said: “While HMOs can provide much-needed affordable housing, it is essential that each application is carefully considered to protect the interests of existing residents. We will be scrutinising the plans to ensure they comply with all relevant regulations and do not adversely affect the neighbourhood.”
A representative of the Romford Residents’ Association added: “We understand the need for more housing, but we urge the council to consider the cumulative impact of multiple HMOs in the area. Proper management and enforcement are key to preventing problems.”
What Happens Next in the Planning Process?
The planning application for the Romford HMO is now in the public consultation phase. Residents and stakeholders have a set period to submit their comments to Havering Council, after which planning officers will review all feedback and prepare a recommendation.
The final decision will be made by the council’s planning committee, which will consider the application’s merits, regulatory compliance, and community input. If approved, the property owner will be required to obtain an HMO licence and adhere to ongoing management standards.
Could This Application Set a Precedent for Future HMOs in Havering?
Housing analysts suggest that the outcome of this application could influence future HMO developments in Romford and the wider Havering borough. As demand for affordable shared accommodation continues to grow, local authorities face the challenge of balancing housing provision with community concerns.
According to planning expert David Brown, quoted by Havering Council News: “Each HMO application must be judged on its individual merits, but decisions can set important precedents for how councils approach similar proposals in the future. Transparent decision-making and robust enforcement are essential.”
How Can Havering Residents Get Involved?
Havering Council encourages all interested parties to participate in the planning process by reviewing the application documents and submitting their views online or in writing. Details of the application and consultation period are available on the council’s planning portal.
Residents can also attend public meetings or contact their local councillors for more information and support.
In summary, the proposed transformation of a Romford home into an HMO for up to eight people marks a significant development in Havering’s housing landscape. The application is now under review, with the council and local community playing a crucial role in determining the outcome.
