Controversial Plans Submitted for Yet Another HMO in Hartlepool, but will locals approve ?

Thirteen Bedroomed HMO (if approved) will add to the 'worrying' increase of Houses of Multiple Occupation being granted by the local council....

22nd August 2024

(Author : HBC Exposed)

Proposals have been put forward which could see yet another property in Hartlepool transformed into a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO), sparking public debate as the town grapples with an increasing number of similar property developments.

The latest application, set to be reviewed by the Hartlepool Development Corporation, seeks to convert the vacant office space at 47 Church Street into a 13-bedroom HMO.

While it's unclear if this proposal will face the same public outcry as similar projects, there's no denying the growing scrutiny these developments are now attracting across the town as an increasign number of empty properties become targets for wealthy property developers to squeeze out as much income from the buildings as they can.......

Speculations rife that the Hartlepool Development Corporation may controversially greenlight the project, aligning with broader plans for the redevelopment of Hartlepool's Church Street.

Despite decades of multi-million-pound investments in just one Hartlepool street, critics argue the area remains one of the towns less desirable spots, with some questioning whether the "levelling up" funds funneled into Church Street might have been better spent on regeneration projects elsewhere in the town, offering more tangible benefits to the wider local community.

The applicant, Borthwick Properties, represented by ASP Services Ltd, argues the conversion is necessary. With office space demand dwindling, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, where its claimed the building's owner has struggled to secure tenants.

The proposed HMO, is said to be designed to accommodate up to 20 residents in a mix of single and double rooms & is seen as a viable alternative to the property being left vacant & unused.

As of now, HBC Exposed has been unable to find a target date for a final decison on the development, and it's unclear whether the proposal will face further scrutiny from a development corporation committee.

Public objections could therefore play a crucial role in shaping whether the plans get the green light, or are refused.