Eastbourne HMO Appeal Denied by Planning Inspector
A planning inspector did not accept an appeal. The appeal was about changing a home into a shared house (HMO) at 14 Rylstone Road in Eastbourne. This decision affects property investors and landlords in the area. It shows that getting an old planning permission for shared housing is hard.
Background of the Case
Star Property owns the house. They turned a family home into a 7-bedroom HMO in late 2018. The planning request came to Eastbourne Borough Council in May 2024. In August 2024, the council said no. They noted that some rooms did not have enough light or a good view.
Council checks found that four of the seven rooms did not get enough natural light or a clear outlook. This gap matters when a room is checked for tenant comfort and safety. After the council’s decision, Star Property asked for a review. They wanted to show that the way they run the property follows the law.
Inspector’s Findings
Last week, the planning inspector shared his findings. He agreed with the council that the standard was low. Still, he found that only one room—the rear basement—had major issues with light and view. He looked at the whole house and saw that the shared spaces were acceptable. Yet the problems with the basement room led him to reject the appeal.
He said, "I viewed the home as a whole. I saw that areas outside the bedrooms were good. Still, the issues in the rear basement stay a problem."
Implications for Property Investors
This decision matters for property investors and landlords who choose HMOs as an investment path. The ruling shows that following planning rules is key. Changing a home without the proper permission can lead to strong consequences. Investors must know that the quality of each living space is part of planning checks.
The case shows that managing rental properties is not simple. Investors must check that any changes follow the law. They must meet the set standards to avoid outcomes like this one.
Conclusion
The rejection of the HMO appeal at 14 Rylstone Road is an important case for owners and investors in Eastbourne. It shows that planning inspectors watch over how living standards are kept. Home changes must be approved before work starts. Investors looking at HMOs must learn the local rules and get all needed permissions first.
For more legal details and case specifics, please refer to application reference 240288 on the Eastbourne Borough Council Planning Portal.
Sources:
