Update over concerns to convert Grey Horse pub at Glazebury into HMO

LOCAL Councillors have issued updates regarding plans to convert the former Grey Horse public house on Warrington Road in Glazebury into a HMO, following ongoing concerns from residents.

Cllrs Janet Seddon and Matt Smith and Neil Johnson have issued statements on the latest situation.

In a joint statement Cllrs Seddon and Smith said: “We’ve been actively engaging with Warrington Borough Council (WBC) officers on this issue since residents first brought their concerns to our attention on 19th May.
“We’ve been working closely with the planning, enforcement, and housing departments to get a clear understanding of the situation.”
The property developer has indicated plans to convert The Grey Horse into a 6-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). However, Councillors Seddon and Smith highlight that significant steps are yet to be taken.

“To operate as an HMO, this property would require a licence from the council, which, as of now, has not been applied for. Crucially, there would also need to be a change of use planning application. This step would trigger a public consultation process, allowing residents to have their say. This application has also not been submitted at this time.”
“We want to assure residents that we will provide our full support in objecting to this application once it is formally submitted. Their concerns are our priority.”
Council officers have inspected the internal works carried out so far, which do not require planning permission. Both the developer and project manager have been made aware of the necessary permissions required before the site can operate as a HMO.
In a broader effort to manage such developments, the Labour-led borough council is currently developing new guidelines. “The council is actively working on a policy to control the growth of HMOs in the future,” Councillor Smith confirmed, “and further details can be found on the Warrington Borough Council website.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Johnson issued a statement saying:”Many local residents have asked me for information on what is happening at The Grey Horse pub in Glazebury.
“I have been in touch with Council officers and am taking the lead on ensuring that the community’s concerns are properly communicated to the Council.
“Planning enforcement attended the site this week. The Council are aware that the property is being converted into a six-bed HMO, but there is nobody living in it yet. The Council found that work is ongoing to the first floor with six bedrooms, en-suites and kitchens all in various states of progress. The ground floor was being used to store materials, with the ceiling being removed as building control has requested upgraded fire protection between the ground floor and the HMO. A room appeared to be being used to sleep in with three mattresses, though the information the Council were given was that the workmen were using it to rest.
“They have been told to remove the mattresses and it has been made clear that nobody can use the property to sleep in either during the day or at night. This was to be done yesterday straightaway. Planning enforcement and housing standards will also be called back to make sure that this has been done.
“The owner has advised that they will bring in a grab wagon to remove the demolished building materials outside once they have completely removed the ceiling. They gave an estimation of around a week’s time for this.
“Officers are now looking to determine if there is a proposed material change in use of the property that requires planning permission. The current understanding is that, whilst the first floor is to be used as a HMO for six persons, the ground floor will remain as a pub.
“No planning applications have been submitted to date. If one is, then letters will be sent out to houses in the area and I will lead the community’s response. At the moment, the Council have just started their investigation to determine if any planning permission is required.”
Neil has pledged to keep a close eye on developments at The Grey Horse and maintain regular contact with officers. He is happy to speak with any residents who have further questions and will keep the community updated when he receives further information.