PLANNERS are being asked to give permission for a children’s home in Warrington to have flexible use as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to five people.
NW Living Ltd. is seeking planning permission for the property on Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington, for ‘Change of Use from children’s home (Use Class C2) to flexible use comprising children’s home (Use Class C2) or small HMO (Use Class C4) for five people’.
The permission is being sought on a flexible basis, which will allow for interchangeability between these uses. The flexible uses are sought to give greater ability to ensure the building can remain occupied and continue to meet local housing needs.
The site building is currently in use as a children’s home (use class C2). It provides accommodation for three children. On-site one-to-one care currently takes place with a continual staff presence. The applicant states the property has previously been used as an HMO.
Planning permission is sought on a flexible basis, which will allow for interchangeability between these uses. The flexible uses are sought to give greater ability to ensure the building can remain occupied and continue to meet local housing needs.
No external alterations are necessary to facilitate either of the uses.
The HMO will be targeted to private residents seeking an affordable housing solution in the local area. These may be people on lower wages who cannot afford to rent and pay all the bills associated with a 1 bed apartment on their own, or who prefer to share with others.
A property manager will be employed and will visit the property regularly, checking on the cleaning of common areas and making sure the bins are being kept tidy. A cleaning company will also be appointed to clean communal areas on a weekly basis.
The application building is located in a predominantly residential area where, as confirmed previously, the principle of residential use is acceptable. The application proposal seeks to allow for continued use as a children’s home or use as an HMO. Both uses will be compatible with the established residential character in the vicinity. The proposal does not involve any extension or physical works which would raise adverse amenity impacts for neighbouring occupiers.
A delegated decision by Warrington Borough Council planners is pending consideration.
