Hadlow Road Welling – home to five-bedroom HMO plan

The authority has received an application seeking permission to change the use of the property at 45 Hadlow Road from a dwellinghouse (Use Class C3) to a house in multiple occupation (HMO – Sui Generis) for up to five occupants.

An HMO is a property where residents have their own bedrooms but share facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.

They are commonly used by young professionals, students, and other renters looking for individual rooms.

If approved, the existing two-storey end-terrace property would be reconfigured internally to provide two double bedrooms and three single bedrooms, alongside a communal kitchen and living area and access to a shared rear garden.

Three of the bedrooms would include en-suite bathrooms, while the remaining rooms would have access to shared facilities within the property.

Planning documents state all bedrooms would meet or exceed minimum space standards, with sizes ranging from 10.1 to 15 square metres.

A communal kitchen measuring around 17 square metres is also proposed, designed to accommodate all residents.

The plans do not include any extensions, structural alterations, or external changes to the building.

From the street, the property would appear unchanged, with no new openings or alterations affecting its appearance or the surrounding street scene.

At the front of the property, space would be available for cycle storage within the driveway area, which is also capable of accommodating at least two vehicles.

Additional on-street parking along Hadlow Road may also be used by residents.

Planning documents argue the proposal would not harm the character of the residential area or result in significant impacts on neighbouring properties.

The application states: “All proposed works are internal and therefore will not impact the surrounding environment, nearby watercourses, or increase any flood risk.”

The property includes a rear garden of around 97 square metres, which would serve as shared outdoor amenity space for occupants.

Existing waste and recycling arrangements would remain in place, with the application stating waste generation is not expected to exceed previous levels.

Supporting documents include floor plans, elevation drawings, and site plans.

The statement adds the proposal would “provide an alternative form of housing for individuals who require shared accommodation” and contribute to local housing supply.

Bexley Council will now assess the application before making a decision on whether the change of use can go ahead.

A decision is expected to be made no later than May 20.