Transformation of Terraced House into HMO and New Application for Closed Shop
In a recent development, the Warrington Borough Council has approved plans for the conversion of a terraced village home into a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO). The property in question, located at number 16 Fairclough Street in Burtonwood, will undergo a transformation from its current state as a two-bedroom house to a four-bedroom HMO. This decision comes amidst a growing trend of converting residential properties into HMOs to meet the increasing demand for affordable housing options in the area.
Community Concerns and Objections
While the approval of the HMO conversion may signal a positive step towards addressing the housing needs of the community, it has also been met with objections from local residents. A total of 11 letters of objection were submitted to the council, citing various concerns such as parking issues, increased traffic in the village, road safety, noise pollution, anti-social behavior, crime rates, waste management, and potential negative impacts on property values along the street.
Additionally, some residents expressed their preference for the property to be prioritized for first-time buyers or families rather than being converted into an HMO. They argued that HMOs are not suitable for Burtonwood, which is known as a family-oriented area, and expressed fears that the approval of this conversion may set a precedent for more HMOs to be established along the street and in the wider Burtonwood community.
Ward councillor Kevin Burgess also raised objections, highlighting the existing challenges with parking in Burtonwood due to the proliferation of HMOs in the area. He emphasized the need to consider the impact of additional cars on the local infrastructure and services.
Council Approval and Recommendations
Despite the objections raised by residents and local authorities, the council ultimately granted permission for the conversion of the terraced house into a four-bedroom HMO. In their decision, the council stated that the proposed development aligns with the criteria of permitted development and recommended the issuance of a lawful development certificate for the project.
The approval of this conversion reflects the council’s commitment to addressing the housing shortage in the area and utilizing existing properties to meet the demand for affordable accommodation options. By repurposing underutilized residential properties into HMOs, the council aims to provide housing solutions that cater to the diverse needs of the community.
New Application for Closed Shop Conversion
In addition to the approved HMO conversion, a separate application has been submitted for the transformation of a closed shop building located on the corner of Gorsey Lane and Quebec Road in Orford. The proposed change of use involves converting the vacant shop and the flat above into a six-bedroom HMO, along with a rear dormer extension and external alterations.
The building, which has been vacant for some time, was previously used as a music shop on the ground floor with a two-bedroom flat for managers on the upper level. To accommodate the six bedrooms in the HMO, a flat roof rear dormer extension is required, along with modifications to the existing external openings to facilitate the new layout and ensure the building is suitable for residential purposes.
The application for the conversion of the closed shop building into a six-bedroom HMO has been met with cautious optimism by the community and local authorities. While there are concerns about the impact of additional occupants on the surrounding area, the proposal offers a viable solution to repurpose an existing vacant building that is in need of repair and refurbishment.
In conclusion, the approval of the HMO conversion and the submission of the application for the closed shop transformation highlight the ongoing efforts to address the housing needs of the community and maximize the utilization of existing properties. By repurposing underutilized buildings into HMOs, the council aims to provide affordable housing options that cater to the diverse needs of residents in Warrington and contribute to the overall development of the area.