Seven-person HMO at 78 Oriel Road, Portsmouth

What was proposed

The application sought to change an existing six-person HMO into a seven-person, seven-bedroom HMO without external development.

“CHANGE OF USE FROM HOUSE IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION (CLASS C4) TO 7 PERSON/7 BEDROOM HOUSE IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION (SUI GENERIS)”

“The Applicant has sought planning permission for the change of use of the dwelling from the current lawful use of as a HMO with up to six individuals living together to allow up to 7 individuals to live together as an HMO. This change in occupancy will involve the repurposing of internal rooms but no external operational development forms part of this application…”

Officer report

The site

The site is a two-storey terraced dwelling with rooms in the roof, six existing bedrooms, shared living space and a garden.

“The application site is a two-storey terraced dwelling with rooms in the roof in a predominately residential area. The site as existing has 6 (single occupant, with ensuite bathroom) bedrooms, split over 3 floors. On the ground floor, is one bedroom, a home office and the shared living space, as well as access to the garden. The first floor has 3 single occupancy bedrooms. The roof space has two single occupancy bedrooms.”

“Oriel Road is characterised by terraced housing of uniform character, of approximately late 19 th to early 20th century age. Nearby amenities include the North End local centre, approximately 200m away, which includes access to bus routes and shops and services. 300m away is the Mountbatten Centre, which provides outdoor space and leisure facilities.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

An earlier application for flexible dwelling or six-person HMO use was not determined, and an appeal was allowed in April 2022.

“App No 21/01446/FUL -Change of use from House in Class C3 (Dwellinghouse) to purposes falling within Class C3 (dwelling house) or Class C4 (House in Multiple Occupation) Decision - Non Determination, Appeal Allowed Date 14.04.2022”

Officer report

Consultees’ views

Housing noted a draft licence limiting occupancy to six, while highways found no unacceptable highway or safety impact and requested cycle storage.

“Private Sector Housing: "The property has now been issued with the draft licence. The draft includes a special condition which states: There are 7 bedrooms, and any of the bedrooms may be used for single occupancy, provided that the total number of occupants does not exceed 6 people…”

“Highways - " I have reviewed the documents submitted in support of the application and would make the following comments Oriel Road is a residential road with bus stops and local amenities in close proximity along London Road and Northern Parade. It is not considered that size of development would lead to a material impact to the function of the highway or result in any unacceptable safety impact.”

Officer report

Residents’ objections

Seven residents objected, citing HMO concentration, loss of family housing, noise, parking, infrastructure, waste, antisocial behaviour and poor management.

“Loss of family housing stock, families in emergency accommodation, and fear of erosion of settled residential areas…”

“Increase in anti‑social behaviour associated with HMOs, including noise, disturbances, housing of unsupported vulnerable individuals.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee heard from an objector, the agent, the applicant and the ward councillor.

What members discussed

Officers confirmed the room dimensions and bedroom outlook, while members emphasised evidence, precedent, policy compliance and the required standards.

“Members' Comments Members emphasised that Portsmouth has one of the most stringent HMO planning policies nationally, including the agreed 10% threshold and decisions should be made on evidence and precedent.”

“The concerns raised about crime and stigma associated with HMOs were acknowledged, but members stressed that no specific evidence had been presented and decisions should be made on policy compliance rather than generalised fears.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

Members resolved to grant unconditional permission.

“Members agreed that the application met the required standards.”

“RESOLVED to grant unconditional permission…”

Minutes