Change of Use from a HMO (Sui-Genesis) to six-bedroom household children's residential home C3(b) in Newham

Change of Use from HMO (Sui Gen) to Six‑Bedroom C3 Dwelling in Newham

A successful planning application was made to Newham Council for the change of use of a former large House in Multiple Occupation (HMO Sui Generis) to a six‑bedroom household children's residential home under Use Class C3(b). The scheme involved reverting a sui‑generis HMO building housing seven or more unrelated adults back to a purpose‑built family‑style residential dwelling.

Background and Local Planning Context

HMOs with seven or more residents fall into the Sui Generis use class, which always requires formal planning permission. Meanwhile, Use Class C3 covers single-family or single‑household dwellings including those accommodating up to six related or supported individuals. In London boroughs such as Newham, Article 4 directions prevent permitted‐development rights, meaning applications are mandatory even for C4 to C3 conversions.

The Planning Process: Key Stages and Requirements

1. Pre‑Application Feasibility and Site Review

A professional consultant began assessing the feasibility of the proposed change of use. We looked at Newham’s planning policies, existing property use, any constraints such as Article 4 directions, local precedent and other material considerations. Once we had established that the proposed use is achievable, we advised our client on the way forward to achieve a positive outcome.

2. Use Class Assessment

Confirming the building’s current status as sui‑generis and defining the proposed end‑use as a six‑bed C3 dwelling children’s home was crucial. This clarified that a full planning application was needed. If the property was a 6 bedroom HMO (C4) use then a conversion to C3b did not require planning permission and it could be converted under PD. 

3. Preparing the Planning Application

Comprehensive submissions included:

• Detailed floor plans showing bedroom layouts and communal living spaces.

• A Planning Statement addressing local policy, living conditions, amenity, and transport.

• Reports or statements demonstrating how the proposal matched Newham’s Core Strategy and Supplementary Planning Documents.

4. Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement

Consultants liaised with Newham Council’s planning officers to address potential issues such as noise, residential amenity, and child welfare standards. Early engagement can significantly improve the chance of approval.

5. Decision‑Making and Approval

After review, the council granted planning permission for the change of use under Use Class C3(b). The approval enabled its operation as a family‑style residential facility, marking a successful return from a high‑density HMO to a regulated, smaller residential setting.

Why Use a Professional Planning Consultant?

Expert Knowledge of Use Classes and London Policies

Navigating UK use‑class rules especially C3, C4, and Sui Generis and local restrictions like Article 4 directions demands specialist expertise.

Streamlined Application Preparation

Consultants handle all technical details: site plans, policy alignment, and impact assessments, saving time and minimising risks of refusal.

Effective Liaison with Officers

Early and ongoing liaison can smooth over issues related to amenity, safety, and community impacts, reducing delays and appeals.

Higher Chance of Approval

Professional submissions signal thoroughness and compliance, giving local planners confidence to approve sensitive change‑of‑use applications.