Plans have been submitted to Warrington Borough Council to renovate and convert a ‘run-down’ house in Orford into an eight-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The property, located on West Avenue, is currently approved for a four-bed HMO with space for six occupants. However, the new plans aim to expand the capacity of the property to accommodate eight individuals.
The application for the conversion highlights that the semi-detached house is well-suited for the proposed changes and only requires internal reconfiguration to create the additional bedrooms. Floor plans included in the submission reveal that the building will feature four bedrooms on the ground floor, with the living room, lounge, and garage being converted into rooms with en-suites.
Pictures accompanying the application provide a glimpse into what the interior of 2 West Avenue could potentially look like, showcasing the proposed layout and design envisioned by Mark Gordon Design and Associates. The design and access statement submitted with the plans emphasizes that the property is not in close proximity to any other HMOs, reducing concerns about over-concentration in the area.
“While Warrington Council has an article four direction in certain parts of the borough, it does not have a specific planning policy to restrict HMOs within a set radius to avoid their over-concentration. However, after reviewing the Warrington HMO License register, it was found that there are no other HMOs in the vicinity of the site,” the statement reads.
Based on this information, it is believed that the proposed development will not contribute to an over-concentration of HMOs in the area, which could potentially have a negative impact on residential amenities and the overall character of the neighborhood. The decision on whether to grant or refuse planning permission for the project is expected to be made by Warrington Borough Council by September 2.
Benefits of Renovating and Converting Orford House
The proposal to renovate and convert Orford House into an eight-bed HMO offers several potential benefits for the local community and the property itself. By transforming a ‘run-down’ property into a modern and functional living space, the project could improve the aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood and contribute to the overall revitalization of the area.
Furthermore, increasing the capacity of the property to accommodate eight individuals provides an opportunity to address the growing demand for affordable housing options in Warrington. With a shortage of suitable accommodation for individuals seeking shared living arrangements, the conversion of Orford House into an HMO could help meet this need and provide a solution for those looking for affordable and convenient housing options.
In addition to addressing the demand for housing, the renovation and conversion of Orford House could also lead to job creation and economic growth in the local area. The construction phase of the project would require the hiring of contractors, builders, and tradespeople, providing employment opportunities for skilled workers and boosting the local economy.
Overall, the renovation and conversion of Orford House into an eight-bed HMO has the potential to have a positive impact on the community by improving housing options, creating jobs, and enhancing the overall appeal of the neighborhood.
Considerations for the Warrington Borough Council
As Warrington Borough Council deliberates on the application to convert Orford House into an eight-bed HMO, several key considerations must be taken into account. One of the primary factors to consider is the potential impact of the project on the surrounding area and its residents.
While the design and access statement submitted with the application argues that the proposed development will not contribute to an over-concentration of HMOs in the neighborhood, it is essential for the council to carefully assess the potential implications of the project on residential amenities and the character of the area.
Furthermore, the council must also evaluate the economic and social benefits of the renovation and conversion of Orford House. By weighing the potential positive outcomes of the project, such as job creation, affordable housing options, and neighborhood revitalization, against any potential drawbacks or concerns raised by local residents, the council can make an informed decision on whether to grant planning permission for the development.
Ultimately, the decision made by Warrington Borough Council will have a significant impact on the future of Orford House and the surrounding community. By carefully considering all aspects of the proposal and taking into account the feedback and concerns of local residents, the council can ensure that the project aligns with the best interests of the community and contributes positively to the overall development of the area.
In conclusion, the plans to renovate and convert Orford House into an eight-bed HMO represent a significant opportunity to improve housing options, create jobs, and enhance the appeal of the neighborhood. However, it is essential for Warrington Borough Council to carefully consider all aspects of the proposal and make a decision that balances the potential benefits of the project with the concerns of local residents. By doing so, the council can ensure that the development of Orford House contributes positively to the community and meets the needs of both current and future residents.