Draft Houses in Multiple Occupation Supplementary Planning Guidance consultation
Draft Houses in Multiple Occupation Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) has been prepared for public consultation.
The purpose of this SPG is to support and provide further direction on the implementation of the policies for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) contained within the adopted (March 2024) Replacement Local Development Plan (RLDP).
It sets out how HMOs should be managed through the planning system across Bridgend County Borough. Its purpose is to ensure HMOs are sustainable and integrate positively with surrounding communities.
A careful balance is required between enabling housing choice and avoiding over-concentration of HMOs in specific localities. In line with RLDP Policy COM7: Houses in Multiple Occupation, this draft SPG provides clear criteria for assessing HMO proposals to prevent over-intensification.
Once adopted, this SPG will be a material consideration in the determination of all planning applications for HMOs, including applications for renewal of consents.
This SPG provides specific guidance on:
- how HMOs are defined in planning terms and when planning permission is required for HMOs
- the roles of Planning, Licensing and Building Regulations in respect of HMOs
- application of the radius test (ensuring that no more than 10% of properties are HMOs within a 50m radius in any given area)
- how the character and appearance of the locality is considered when major extensions or alterations are proposed
- how the scale and intensity of HMOs will be considered in relation to HMO applications
- how local parking provision will be considered in relation to HMO applications
- amenity considerations (of both future HMO occupants and neighbours)
- submission requirements for applicants
The public consultation will run for 6 weeks between 06 October and 16 November 2025.
Consultation documents
The SPG consultation document can be viewed below.
A representation form can also be viewed below and may be submitted by:
- Downloading the form and e-mailing to LDP@Bridgend.gov.uk
- Printing and posting to: Strategic Planning Policy Team, Bridgend County Borough Council, Civic Offices, Angel Street, Bridgend, CF31 4WB.
All representations must be received by 11:59pm 16 November 2025.
Contact
Further information on the consultation can be obtained by contacting the Strategic Planning Policy Team on: