Unlocking a 5-Bed HMO in Brent
Phased Applications Deliver a Complex Conversion
4.9Project overview
Client: Property Investment Manager
Location: Near Tunbridge Wells (Conservation Area)
Headline results
- Approval secured on a constrained site
- Phased consent strategy delivered
The challenge
The site sat within a restrictive policy area where change of use applications were routinely refused.
With the asset underperforming and planning restrictions appearing to close off redevelopment options, the opportunity to unlock additional value seemed unlikely.
Our strategy
We structured a phased application strategy so that each consent strengthened the case for the next, reducing the risk of a single refusal derailing the project.
To strengthen the planning case, we advised a phased application strategy:
- 1. Secure permission for the extensions first
- 2. Apply for the HMO change of use once additional space was approved
During the application process, we engaged directly with the council to address emerging concerns. By presenting robust planning arguments and policy evidence, we successfully overcame objections that could otherwise have led to refusal.
The outcome
Both applications were approved, unlocking substantially more lettable floorspace than the original scheme.
The client has since instructed us on two further sites.
Client feedback
“Two other firms turned this down. Breakthrough Planning not only took it on — they secured two major extensions and approval for a 5-bed HMO in an Article 4 area. The additional value created dwarfs their fee. They’re now our go-to consultants whenever a project looks complicated.”
