House in multiple occupation (HMO)
Councils are currently deciding on planning applications for Houses in Multiple Occupation, often balancing expansion proposals against resident concerns.
In November 2026, Sutton Council’s Planning Committee approved a change of use for a 6-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) to a 10-bedroom one in Wallington, despite neighbours raising concerns about noise, disturbance, and parking. In October 2026, Enfield Council’s Planning Committee rejected an HMO application due to insufficient parking provision.
A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a residential dwelling shared by multiple unrelated individuals who share facilities like a kitchen or bathroom. Councils regularly consider planning applications for HMOs, which often involve balancing housing needs with local concerns such as parking, noise, and the character of an area.
Key facts
- Sutton Council’s Planning Committee approved a change of use for a 6-bedroom HMO to a 10-bedroom one at 16 Onslow Gardens in November 2026. Source
- The Sutton Planning Committee voted 7 to 3 to approve the 10-bedroom HMO expansion. Source
- Objectors to the Wallington HMO warned of "unacceptable noise, disturbance, overbearing activity, and late-night comings and goings". Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 10 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.
