Report HPR2021/025

The Executive considered a report setting out information relating to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and the nature and scale of HMOs in Bromley. The report set out the options available for controlling HMOs in the Borough and whether such options were justified given the available evidence. The issue had been considered by Development Control Committee, Renewal, Recreation and Housing PDS Committee and the Executive at its last meeting.

The Portfolio Holder for Environment and Community Services commented that HMOs often did not have facilities for segregated waste collection, and that they might lead to an increase in cars particularly in areas less well served by public transport.  Officers commented that there was no specific evidence relating to HMOs and cars, but that it might be possible to include requirements about providing space for waste collection in the Local Plan.

RESOLVED that

(1) The impacts of HMOs identified in the report and the accompanying evidence base document at Appendix 1 be noted.

(2) Evidence relating to HMOs in the Borough, including seeking more information on smaller HMOs borough–wide and within existing and developing clusters, continues to be monitored and kept up to date with further reports to be submitted to future meetings of Development Control Committee.

(3) A non-immediate Article 4 Direction be introduced across the entire Borough and that Licensing officers be asked to review arrangements for all sizes of HMOs including those with three or more occupants.

(4) An immediate Article 4 Direction be introduced for Biggin Hill and Darwin wards.