Family homes in Old Bexley, Sidcup and Welling are under threat thanks to the rapid rise in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).
Bexley homes are being divided into low-quality, high-rent rooms. In properties where one family once lived, in some cases, eight people now live, sharing crowded facilities. The loss of family homes makes it harder for families to buy a house. Renters also deserve better than this.
Whilst a small number of HMOs have traditionally provided student accommodation in Sidcup, the rapid increase in new HMOs is now having a detrimental impact on our community. They too often bring anti-social behaviour, overcrowding, and pressure on local services and parking. They can also turn a quiet, tight-knit residential street from family-friendly into a less welcoming place to live.
In 2017, Bexley Council used its powers to require anyone converting a family home into an HMO to apply for planning permission. In 2023, new local planning policies were introduced to protect family homes. That’s why last year, a majority of HMO applications were rejected. However, the Council is still unable to reject many inappropriate HMOs because national and regional planning policies are permitting the rapid loss of family homes.
That's why I'm calling on the Government and the Mayor of London to allow Bexley Council to introduce even tougher planning rules. Firstly, the Government must change planning law so that councils can refuse outright HMO applications that result in the loss of a family home. Secondly, the Mayor of London must remove his planning protections for HMOs.
But I need your help. I have launched a petition to show the Government the level of opposition to inappropriate HMOs being imposed on communities. I plan to present the petition to Parliament. I will also write to the Mayor of London on behalf of all who sign, urging him also to change policies.
Sign the petition today to say no to HMOs, protect family homes and keep Old Bexley, Sidcup and Welling a great place to live.