Bridgend council backs controversial HMO conversion despite strong resident opposition
Bridgend planning committee approved a four-bedroom house-in-multiple-occupation on Oxford Street, Pontycymer, even though councillors called the application “appalling” and residents lodged numerous objections.
During a planning committee session on October 15, 2026, Bridgend councillors gave the green light to turn a traditional three-bedroom mid-terrace house on Oxford Street, Pontycymer, into a four-bedroom house-in-multiple-occupation with a shared lounge, kitchen and only one toilet. Residents submitted ten objections, highlighting insufficient on-street parking, potential noise, limited bedroom dimensions and no usable outdoor area; a local councillor and Labour MS Huw Irranca-Davies were among the objectors.
Council officers maintained the proposal complied with both national and local planning guidance, noting no other HMO within 50 metres. The motion passed with five votes for, two against and four abstentions, while a developer warned a refusal would lead to an appeal to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales. The same committee also approved a separate HMO conversion at Litchard Park despite 24 public objections.
Why it matters
The decision shows how local housing pressures can override community concerns, affecting neighbourhood quality and future planning standards.
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