Hendon Way mixed-use building faces HMO conversion and rear extension plans

A mixed-use building on Hendon Way could be extended and converted into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) under plans submitted to Barnet Council. The application, reference 26/2896/FUL, covers 397-401 Hendon Way, a property facing the A41 near Brent Street.

The proposal includes a three-storey rear extension, roof extensions with six dormers and six rooflights, and a new atrium and shop front. The upper floors would be converted into HMOs, as reported by the Ham & High on 12 June 2025.

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What the plans would change

The current building houses commercial space on the ground floor and residential units above. The application seeks to remodel the rear and roof, adding significant built form. The new atrium would create an internal lightwell, while the shop front would alter the street-facing elevation.

HMOs, which house unrelated tenants sharing facilities, are subject to separate licensing rules. Barnet Council’s private housing team would enforce standards on room sizes, fire safety and amenities if the conversion proceeds.

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Why Hendon residents may notice

Hendon Way is a major arterial route carrying traffic between the North Circular Road and central Hendon. The site sits opposite Brent Street, a local shopping parade. Any construction would require roadside scaffolding and could disrupt parking and pedestrian access.

The application does not specify the number of new HMO units or the size of the proposed extension. It is unclear how many additional residents would occupy the building or what impact this would have on local services.

What happens next

Barnet Council has not yet published a consultation deadline for application 26/2896/FUL. Residents may view the full plans on the council’s planning portal using the reference number. Comments can be submitted online or by post to the planning department.

The council’s planning committee will consider the application after the consultation closes. No date has been set for a decision. If approved, the applicant would need to secure building regulations approval before starting work.