Decisions

Description:

Change of use from a dwelling (use Class C3) to a House of Multiple occupation (HMO) (Sui Generis) (Including manager’s flat) and shared living facilities for occupants up to 8 people.

Additional Information:

Ten late letters of representation had been received. Issues not covered previously included:

·         Loss of privacy

·         Will set a precedent, and

·         House prices

In response to these, the proposal does not include any extensions. As such, it is not considered that the proposed change of se would result in a loss of privacy impact on existing neighbouring properties. Each planning application has to be assessed on its own merits. The value of property is not a planning matter.

A letter has been sent to Planning Committee members from the applicant noting a number of matters including:

·         The existing property is a large 7 bedroomed house and could be occupied by a large extended family,

·         Only very minor alterations to the existing are required,

·         They do not expect all occupants to have cars,

·         Are aware of HMO licensing requirements, and

·         The proposal will provide a more affordable housing option, during the cost of living crisis.

Public Speaking:

There was none.

Debate:

During the debate the following key issues were raised:

-The addition of two extra people seemed unnecessary

-Residents were fearful of noise and disruption to street scene

-The property could still be used as a HMO for six residents without requirement for planning permission

-The bedrooms were of sufficient size in line with Government standards

-Complaints were still raised by residents for previously approved HMOs

-There was a lack of consistency within the application

-The application included sufficient parking and affordable housing

-There was a lack of HMOs in the borough with more needed

- The property was mostly adjoined by roads and was no crammed in a small neighbourhood

-The manager on site would be able to address any issues

-Most rooms had double beds which would make it difficult to limit the number of residents to eight.

-It was difficult to police HMOs  

-There would be no significant changes to the property

-The property had a large garden and space at front for parking

-The property was out of keeping with the local area

The Committee voted on the application as follows:

For: 7

Against: 1

Abstain: 1

Decision: The recommendation to approve was agreed and the application was approved subject to conditions as set out in the Committee report.