In recent months, Surrey residents have mobilized in response to the rising number of Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in their neighborhoods, spurred by concerns over community integrity and property values. Richard Evans, a long-standing resident of a semi-detached cottage, has voiced his distress regarding the potential conversion of a nearby property into a six-bedroom HMO. He is not alone in his worries; many residents fear their area is becoming at risk of losing its character, similar to issues seen in Hounslow, which has experienced significant challenges linked to housing density. HMOs provide affordable shared accommodation for various demographics, including students and low-income individuals, but the recent surge in such properties has raised alarms about local oversight, property management, and the council’s effectiveness in regulating housing developments. As the community unites to voice their concerns, the implications of these changes are being closely scrutinized.
Key Takeaways
- Surrey residents are increasingly concerned about the rise of Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) affecting their community integrity.
- The potential conversion of local properties into HMOs has sparked fears of declining neighborhood standards, reminiscent of issues faced in Hounslow.
- Residents, including long-term homeowners, feel neglected by local council oversight in managing the growing trend of HMOs.
The Impact of HMOs on Neighborhoods
In Surrey, the rise of Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has sparked significant concern among residents about the potential impacts on their neighborhoods, drawing comparisons to the ongoing struggles faced by areas like Hounslow. Richard Evans, a long-term resident of a semi-detached cottage, voiced his anxiety upon discovering that a nearby property is slated for conversion into a six-bedroom HMO. With over two decades spent in his home, Evans is now weighing the difficult option of selling due to the distress linked to this prospective change. HMOs are popular as they provide affordable shared living spaces primarily for students, young professionals, and those on lower incomes, characterized by communal kitchens and bathrooms. However, the influx of these properties has raised alarms among locals, who argue that inadequate oversight and absence of required planning permissions by local authorities have exacerbated the housing situation in their community. Residents like Evans are calling for more stringent regulations to prevent unchecked growth and maintain the character of their neighborhoods.
Residents’ Concerns and Community Action
The surge in HMOs has prompted a wider community response, with residents organizing meetings and creating petitions to address their concerns with local officials. They argue that the conversion of traditional homes into multiple rental units threatens the fabric of the community, leading to a loss of personal and family-oriented housing. Local activist groups have also emerged, advocating for stricter regulations on property conversions and more empowered councils that would enable them to oversee such changes effectively. Evans has joined forces with his neighbors to push for a clear policy framework that would regulate the number of HMOs permitted in a given area and encourage more family-friendly housing developments, ensuring that Surrey retains its character as a pleasant residential zone. The collective action of concerned residents underscores the importance of community engagement in local planning issues, as they seek to hold the council accountable for the well-being of their neighborhood.
