East Barnet Pub Approved as HMO Despite Backdating

Enfield Council has granted part retrospective planning permission for the former Station Tavern pub in East Barnet to operate as a house in multiple occupation (HMO). The approval, reference 26/01472/FUL, backdates permission to April this year. This decision was made despite indications that the property was already functioning as an HMO before this approved date.

Council's Stance on Retrospective Applications

A spokesperson for Enfield Council stated that retrospective developments are evaluated based on their planning merits, irrespective of whether work commenced before permission was obtained. The council indicated that the application was assessed against planning policy and found to be acceptable, asserting that there were no errors necessitating corrective action. The decision was made under the authority of Karen Page, the council's head of planning and building control.

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Investigation and Conditions

Concerns about the building being converted into an HMO without permission were raised in October last year, prompting an investigation by the council. At the time, the council confirmed it was looking into the matter but could not provide further details due to an ongoing live investigation. Evidence gathered in March, prior to the approved start date, included a mailbox sign indicating 'Letters here for HMO rooms', suggesting occupancy. A verification report concerning drainage and flood risk mitigation measures must be submitted by July 23. Failure to do so could result in the permission ceasing until the report is approved.

Applicant and Previous Proposals

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The applicant for the HMO is identified as 'Mr Tepe'. This is the same surname as the individual behind a previous proposal for a tower block on the same site, known as 'Tepe Tower'. That scheme was refused by councillors in November 2024 after planning officers had repeatedly advised against it, describing it as 'unsafe'.