1. Permanent loss of family homes
29 Torrington Road has long formed part of a settled residential street made up of traditional family housing. Converting this dwelling into a multi-occupancy property removes an important family home from the area at a time when such housing is in high demand.
The Council introduced borough-wide Article 4 controls specifically to manage the spread of HMOs and prevent the gradual erosion of family housing. Granting permission in this case would undermine that policy objective and contribute to an imbalance in the local housing mix
2. Unsuitable intensification of use
A six-person HMO represents a significant intensification compared to a single household. The pattern of occupation is fundamentally different, typically involving unrelated adults with differing schedules, increased visitor numbers, and higher turnover.
This level of activity is not in keeping with the established character of Torrington Road, which is a quiet residential street primarily occupied by families. The change alters the nature of the property and risks setting a precedent for further similar conversions.
3. Parking and traffic concerns
On-street parking on Torrington Road is already under pressure.
Introducing up to six unrelated adult occupants makes it highly
likely that additional vehicles will be associated with the
property.
This would:
• Increase congestion
• Reduce available parking for existing residents
• Potentially obstruct access for emergency and service
vehicles
• Create additional highway safety concerns
There is no clear evidence that these impacts can be adequately
managed.
4. Noise and disturbance
Multi-occupancy properties generate a higher frequency of
comings and goings, deliveries, and general activity than a
single-family dwelling.
The cumulative effect of six separate occupants can result
in:
• Increased noise levels
• Late-night arrivals and departures
• Greater use of shared outdoor areas
This risks undermining the peaceful enjoyment of neighbouring homes
and altering the settled nature of the street.
5. Waste management and wildlife concerns
A property housing six adults will inevitably produce
substantially more refuse and recycling than a typical family
home.
Without strict and well-managed arrangements, this can lead
to:
• Overflowing bins
• Waste left on pavements
• Increased attraction of vermin such as rats
• Greater fox activity and other wildlife disturbances
Residents have already expressed concern about wildlife sightings
in the area. Additional unmanaged waste would worsen these issues
and negatively affect public health and the appearance of the
street.
6. Pressure on infrastructure
The property was designed as a modest family dwelling.
Intensifying its use places added strain on drainage, water supply,
and shared utility systems.
The cumulative effect of increased usage may impact neighbouring
properties and local services that were not designed to accommodate
this level of occupation within a single dwelling.
7. Concerns over compliance and management.
The reported occupation of the property without the required HMO
licence raises serious concerns regarding the applicant’s
approach to regulation and management.
The Council must be satisfied not only that the physical standards
are met, but that the property will be responsibly and lawfully
managed in the long term. At present, those assurances are not
evident.
We respectfully ask the London Borough of Hillingdon to:
• Refuse any application to grant an HMO licence at 29
Torrington Road
• Refuse planning permission for change of use to Class
C4
• Take appropriate enforcement action where necessary
Torrington Road is a settled residential community. Allowing this
conversion would materially change its character and contribute to
avoidable pressures on parking, amenity, and local
infrastructure.
We strongly oppose the granting of permission.
Note: related building control application: 79606/IN/2025/960
On reaching 20 signatures it will be formally considered by the Council and relevant Cabinet Member. Local ward Councillors will also be made aware of the petition. The Council's Democratic Services Team will keep the lead petitioner updated on progress.
This ePetition runs from 18/02/2026 to 18/03/2026.
350 people have signed this ePetition.