The town has been witnessing a surge in applications for converting houses into HMOs, or houses of multiple occupation, in recent times. The latest proposal comes from Parata Property Ltd for number 129 on Lovely Lane in Bewsey.
The plans submitted to Warrington Borough Council aim to transform the two-storey, mid-terraced property into a seven-bed HMO. All seven rooms would be accessible from the front entrance and shared stairwell, utilizing the additional roof space provided by the rear extension and dormer.
According to planning documents, the property owner is looking to establish a partnership with the hospital to offer high-quality accommodation to hospital staff coming for training and secondment from other hospitals, while also providing local housing.
The potential tenants of this property are likely to be working professionals, each signing a tenancy agreement outlining their rights, responsibilities, rules, and regulations. Background checks and references will be conducted as part of the tenant screening process, including verification of employment and checks for any criminal history.
The applicant plans to conduct regular visits to the property, at least quarterly, to inspect for maintenance issues, address tenant concerns, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards. The goal is to create a positive living experience for all occupants and neighboring residents by prioritizing safety, comfort, and legal compliance.
The proposed site is in a highly sustainable location, justifying an intensification of its current residential use in the context of the surroundings. The applicant argues that there isn’t an over-concentration of converted HMOs in the area, so the new plans wouldn’t add to any perceived issues in the neighborhood.
Despite the lack of off-street parking, the applicant believes it’s not necessary as the HMO would cater to hospital staff expected to use public transportation.
In conclusion, the application to convert the terraced home into a seven-bed HMO without parking raises considerations about tenant screening, property management, and neighborhood impact. The aim is to provide quality accommodation for working professionals while ensuring legal compliance and a positive living experience for all occupants and residents.