Why it matters: The Planning and Development Committee rejected the application yesterday to convert the single dwelling into a House in Multiple Occupation for six people. Planning officers had recommended approval, stating the proposal met council policies on room sizes, parking provision and HMO concentration limits.
The proposal: Suffolk Building & Maintenance Ltd sought to change the use of the Victorian terrace house from a single dwelling to a six-bedroom HMO. The property had already been renovated with individual bedrooms, shared kitchen facilities, cycle storage and security cameras following a previous planning permission for a rear extension.
Local opposition: Three residents objected to the application, citing concerns over parking pressure, noise and potential antisocial behaviour. One objector raised fears about the impact on the neighbourhood, referencing issues with an existing HMO at 20 Little Croft Street.
However, ten residents supported the application, praising the property's renovation and arguing it would provide affordable accommodation whilst improving the street's appearance.
The other side: Planning officers concluded the proposal complied with policies limiting HMO concentration, noting that whilst Little Croft Street has fewer than 20 properties, its L-shaped layout meant the existing HMO at number 20 was on a different section of road.
Officers also accepted that one bedroom fell slightly below the 10 square metres guideline, but said this was acceptable given the shared kitchen-dining area met size requirements.
What's next: The applicant can appeal the decision or submit a revised application addressing councillors' concerns.
The bottom line: Despite meeting technical planning requirements, local concerns about the impact of multiple occupancy housing proved decisive.
