Hammersmith and Fulham's Planning and Development Control Committee has approved plans to increase the number of rooms in a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) by 15, bringing the total to 44.
The property at 643 Fulham Road will now have 44 HMO rooms after permission was granted for the erection of an additional floor at roof level and a three-storey plus basement extension. The committee's decision was based on the proposal providing acceptable living conditions and quality of accommodation, subject to a satisfactory legal agreement and conditions.
Eight public representations were received concerning the expansion, with five objections focusing on the public house's character, waste storage, construction impacts, and the suitability of the use. Council officers addressed these concerns through conditions and legal agreements, which included contributions towards employment and skills, carbon offsetting, and urban greening.
The property currently holds a valid mandatory HMO licence for a maximum occupancy of 29 persons (29 households). The applicant confirmed the property operates as a large HMO (in Sui Generis use class). The Licensing Team raised no objection, provided the plans comply with the Council's Guidance for Amenities Required in HMOs (2024). The licence holder will need to contact the Licensing Team to submit an updated floor plan for a licence variation to increase the maximum permitted occupancy.
Measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the increased number of residents are to be addressed through compliance with the Council's Guidance for Amenities Required in HMOs (2024) and a licence variation process. The decision was subject to a satisfactory legal agreement and conditions, which also included contributions towards employment and skills, carbon offsetting, and urban greening.
