Policy information sourced from Lambeth Local Plan 2020-2035

H9: Hostels and houses in multiple occupation

  • The council will support proposals for new hostels and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) where it is demonstrated that the accommodation:
    • does not result in the loss of housing suitable for occupation by families as defined in Local Plan policy H6;
    • would meet an identified local need;
    • will be suitable for the intended occupiers in terms of the standard of facilities;
    • will be accessible to public transport, shops, services, community facilities and social networks appropriate to the needs of the intended occupiers;
    • will not provide additional off-street car parking where a Controlled Parking Zone exists or is planned, will provide cycle parking in accordance with Local Plan policy T3 and will not have an unacceptable impact on parking conditions and traffic congestion in the area;
    • is on a site and in a location suitable for that particular use, having regard to amenity, transport and other environmental impacts; and
    • contributes to creating an inclusive community and would not result in an over-concentration of such uses within a neighbourhood that would harm the mix, balance and well-being of communities by giving rise to anti-social behaviour.
  • The loss of existing hostels and houses in multiple occupation will be resisted unless it can be demonstrated that:
    • the accommodation is no longer needed and the floorspace is replaced by another form of residential accommodation that will meet another identified priority local need; or
    • the property is incapable of meeting modern standards; or
    • the existing accommodation will be adequately re-provided to an equivalent or better standard on-site or elsewhere in the borough.

For more information please see the Local Plan