PETITION: SUPPORT HMO ARTICLE 4 DIRECTION FOR MOLESEY

We are calling on Elmbridge Borough Council to consider introducing an Article 4 Direction in Molesey to remove permitted development rights for changes of use from family homes (Use Class C3) to small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) (Use Class C4).

This would not prevent HMOs from being created. Instead, it would require planning permission to be obtained before a family home can be converted into an HMO, allowing the Council to properly assess the potential impact on the surrounding area.

At present, national permitted development rights allow many family homes to be converted into HMOs occupied by up to six people without the need for a planning application. As a result, changes in occupancy can occur without a formal assessment of local parking capacity, infrastructure pressures, waste management arrangements, residential amenity, or the cumulative impact on neighbourhood character.

Residents across East Molesey, West Molesey and Hampton Court have raised concerns regarding:

• The loss of family housing stock
• Increased parking pressures on residential roads
• Growing demand on local infrastructure and services
• The cumulative impact of multiple HMOs within the same area
• The lack of opportunity for residents to comment on proposals before they proceed

Molesey is already making an important contribution towards meeting the Borough's housing needs through designated development sites and new housing delivery. However, many residents believe that significant changes in residential occupation should be subject to appropriate planning scrutiny to ensure sustainable and balanced communities.

An Article 4 Direction would restore the Council's ability to consider each proposal on its individual merits and assess local circumstances before changes take place.

We are therefore asking Elmbridge Borough Council to:

• Undertake a review of HMO concentrations within Molesey
• Assess the cumulative impact of HMOs on local infrastructure, parking and residential amenity
• Consider the introduction of an Article 4 Direction in areas where evidence demonstrates a need for greater planning oversight

This petition is not opposed to tenants, HMOs or new housing. It supports a balanced, evidence-based approach that ensures future development is properly assessed and reflects the needs of existing and future residents alike.

Please sign to support a more transparent and sustainable approach to planning in Molesey.