Councillors Block Planning Application, Amid Community Concerns...

Councillors rejected plans for works on a property that many locals claimed would be used as a Controversial House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO).....

5th December 2024

A planning application that many locals feared could pave the way for the property to become a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) has been firmly rejected by town councillors at a planning committee meeting held earlier this week...

The application, submitted by ASP Service Ltd on behalf of Mr. Javaid Hussain, sought approval for a three-story extension to a property in Stanhope Avenue. The plans reportedly included the demolition of an existing garage, the installation of a UPVC front door, as well as various external alterations. However, the proposals sparked significant opposition from residents, who raised concerns about the potential for the property to be used as a HMO, a controversial housing model that has drawn much criticism in the area.

As many as twelve local residents voiced their objections pointing to a history of poor management associated with HMOs in the area. They also argued that the proposed development was not in keeping with the character of a family home and feared it would set a troubling precedent.

When the plans were presented at the council’s planning committee this week, councillors expressed similar concerns, with planning officers also recommending the plans be rejected, citing concerns with the development’s impact on the local area.

In the report, the planning officers stated:

“In the opinion of the Local Planning Authority, the proposed development, by virtue of its overall design, scale, siting, and use of materials, would constitute an unsympathetic form of development that would have an unacceptable impact on the character and appearance of the existing dwelling and surrounding area. This would result in less than substantial harm to the designated heritage asset (Grange Conservation Area).”

The report further noted that the potential harm to the area’s heritage would not be justified by any public benefits the development might bring. As such, the proposal was deemed contrary to the Hartlepool Local Plan & the application subsequently refused....