Six-person HMO at 24 Lucknow Street, London SE18

What was proposed

The application sought a six-bedroom, six-person HMO, two single-storey rear extensions, cycle and refuse storage, and associated alterations.

“Planning permission is sought for a change of use from an existing single family dwellinghouse (Use Class C3) to a 6-bed, 6-person HMO (Use Class C4), in addition to the construction of two single-storey rear extensions, provision of cycle and refuse storage and all other associated alterations…”

“The proposed single storey rear extension that would be attached to the existing two-storey rear outrigger along the northern portion of the site would measure 3m in depth, a width of 3.18m and a height of 3m (3.17 to the top of the parapet).”

Officer report

The site

The site contains a two-storey terraced dwelling with a small front garden and rear yard in a predominantly residential area.

“The site is located on the northwestern side of Lucknow Street and contains an existing two-storey terraced dwelling, with a small front garden and a rear yard.”

“ITEM NO: PAGE NO: 4 3.4 The surrounding area is predominantly residential in character and comprises a mixture of terraced dwellings, blocks of flats and some semi-detached dwellings.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

A similar HMO scheme was approved in 2024, a rear dormer certificate was approved and implemented, and a later certificate application was withdrawn.

“Approved on 28/11/2024 24/4002/CP Certificate of Lawfulness Proposed is sought for the erection of a rear dormer roof extension.”

“Approved on 28/01/2025 25/0195/CP Certificate of Lawfulness (Proposed) for the construction of two single-storey rear extensions (planning reference 24/2093/F) and LDC loft conversion (planning reference 24/4002/CP).”

Officer report

Concerns raised

Objections covered neighbourhood character, HMO concentration, parking, overcrowding, living conditions, privacy, noise, waste, safety and possible unauthorised works.

“ITEM NO: PAGE NO: • Overcrowding and high population density The proposed bedrooms meet the minimum area requirements under the Council’s HMO standards. • Poor quality and Inadequate living conditions for tenants (small room sizes, lack of communal spaces, access to natural lights) • Lack of privacy with bedroom window and door looking into garden.”

“There is no requirement for minimum floor space for ensuite bathroom. • Privacy and overlooking concerns for neighbouring properties. Loss of Daylight/Sunlight Amenity effects on surrounding properties are discussed elsewhere in this report. • No on street parking • Parking congestion • Increased traffic Highways and traffic matters are discussed in the relevant section of this report.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee accepted a presentation from the Area Planning Manager, and no speaker requests were received.

Members’ discussion

Members had no questions for the planning officer and moved directly to the vote.

“As Members had no questions for the Planning Officer, and no speaker requests were received and neither the applicant nor their representative were in attendance, Members moved directly to the vote.”

Minutes

The vote

Six members voted in favour, one against and none abstained.

“The Chair put the recommendation to grant planning consent to the vote with – 6 Members in favour 1 Member against 0 Members abstaining…”

Minutes

The decision

Full planning permission was granted for the HMO, extensions, cycle and refuse storage and associated alterations, subject to conditions.

“That full planning permission be granted for the change of use from an existing single family dwellinghouse (Use Class C3) to a 6-bed, 6-person HMO (Use Class C4), in addition to the construction of two single- storey rear extensions, provision of cycle and refuse storage and all other associated alterations.”

“That the Assistant Director (Planning & Building Control) be authorised to make any minor changes to the detailed wording of the recommended conditions as set out in Appendix 2 of the report, where the Assistant Director (Planning & Building Control) considers it appropriate, before issuing the decision notice.”

Minutes