Colchester City Council Approves Change of Use to a Large HMO
Planning permission from Colchester City Council for the change of use of an existing family dwelling in Colchester to a large sui generis HMO, following a thorough assessment of HMO considerations.
PLANNING APPROVALSCOLCHESTERESSEX
Andrew Ransome
7/22/20262 min read
In 2024, Colchester City Council approved planning permission for the change of use of a family dwelling in Colchester to a large House in Multiple Occupation — a sui generis use requiring full planning permission.
I undertook thorough appraisal reviewing HMO concentration levels, transport links and space standards, which proved decisive in demonstrating the proposal was acceptable.
Large HMO Granted Planning Permission in Colchester
I secured planning permission from Colchester City Council for the change of use of an existing dwelling in Colchester to a large House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).
The development transforms the property into a purpose-designed shared living space close to Colchester town centre.
It is important to understand the planning classification of HMOs.
Small HMOs accommodating three to six residents fall within Use Class C4, and in most circumstances can be created under permitted development rights.
Large HMOs — those accommodating seven or more people — are classified as sui generis uses, which means they fall outside any formal use class and require a full planning application regardless of the size of the change.
Before submitting the application, I undertook a thorough assessment. I reviewed the local concentration of HMO uses in the area, to ensure the proposed large HMO would not create an over-concentration of this type of accommodation in the neighbourhood.
Having addressed all the key concerns before submission, the planning application was well-prepared and all potential objections were anticipated and resolved in the supporting documents.
Each bedroom was designed to comply with HMO space standards, and the shared facilities were generous and fit for purpose.
Colchester City Council approved the large HMO application.
Planning Application Advice
If you are considering a large HMO conversion and want to understand the planning requirements and how to navigate the application process, I can advise from the outset. Contact me to discuss your project.
Andrew Ransome MRTPI - Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
About me
Andrew Ransome is a Planning Director and a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), with more than two decades of experience in town planning.
He specialises in delivering strategic planning solutions for complex developments across both rural and urban environments, helping clients navigate planning challenges and unlock development opportunities. Connect with Andrew on Linkedin.
Planning Approvals in Colchester
Planning Application Information
Get in touch for planning advice: Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
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