PLANNERS have approved another application to convert a terraced property in Fairfield & Howley, Warrington, into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).
It involves a loft Conversion including rear dormer, removal of chimney, roof lights to front and change of use to Class C4 HMO on Alexandra Street, Fairfield And Howley, the second such approval in a week.
The proposal involved Change of Use from Single Family Dwelling (C3) to 6 Person HMO (C4).
Local Warrington Borough Cllr Sagheer Zaman opposed the application and said: “I have been contacted by a number of residents objecting to this proposal and as the ward councillor sympathise with their concerns and I herby strongly object to this HMO application and loft conversion including L shaped dormer window on the following grounds:
• HMO is not suited to residential terraced properties, streets and often bring noise, anti-social behaviour and safety issues.
• There is no parking provision for the property which will result in on street parking within an overly subscribed and busy area.
• The visual impact of the development
• Impact on highway safety with one way in place already, a significant increase in congestion and insufficient parking.
• Due to the volume of usage, HMO houses can rapidly deteriorate to the detriment of its neighbours.
• Noise nuisance – Noise levels will be higher compared to a family home with a group of single adults are more likely to have their own televisions, their own music devices, overnight visitors (more cars and noise), more parties, and to have less concern for their neighbours and anti-social behaviour.
• Waste management – Already over stretched which will lead to more fly tipping.
• Most HMO’s tenants aren”t usually long-term residents and don”t care if they fall out.”
Planners say loft conversion to convert property into HMO is lawful
