Re-Development Plans Submitted for Proposed Bar and HMO in Church Street..
- teessidetoday
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
The property, which has reportedly been vacant for some time could be brought back into use as a Hybrid Coffee & Cocktail Bar, with a HMO on the upper floors subject to approval by the Hartlepool Development Corporation..
9th July 2025
Plans have been submitted for yet another House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Hartlepool – this time at the historic Bank Chambers on Church Square, just a stone’s throw from the Northern School of Art.
The applicant, LJP Developments of Ark Royal Close in Seaton Carew, is seeking permission to convert the long-vacant beauty salon at 7–7a Church Square into a hybrid coffee and cocktail bar on the ground floor, while turning the upper floors into an 8-bedroom HMO aimed at students and young professionals.
Sensitive, yet Ambitious Development.
In a planning statement, submitted in support of the proposals LJP say they recently acquired the building after it had “remained on the market for over 12 months,” calling it a reflection of the “prolonged underuse” of the premises and the “need for viable reinvestment.” They describe the proposal's as a “sensitive yet ambitious redevelopment” intended to breathe new life into the area.
The property, formerly used as a bank, lies within the Church Street Conservation Area, raising further questions over how much modernisation is appropriate. That said, LJP insists the development will respect the historic nature of the site while adding to the local economy.
As for the upper floors, they’re said to be in poor condition and ripe for conversion. The proposed HMO would feature eight en-suite bedrooms, with shared kitchen and living spaces, supposedly catering to rising demand from students and young professionals, particularly due to its close proximity to the Northern Art College.
On the ground floor and in the basement, the developers propose a hybrid-style bar serving coffee by day, cocktails by night – a growing trend across university towns.
LJP describes itself as an experienced developer with a strong track record of managing HMOs in Hartlepool. According to their statement, their properties are “professionally managed and well maintained,” with no prior issues relating to anti-social behaviour.
However, despite the confidence of the applicant – and the likelihood of favourable support from the Hartlepool Development Corporation, which has backed similar mixed-use schemes – the application is not without potential controversy.
Many residents have grown increasingly concerned about the rising number of HMOs cropping up across Hartlepool, with some neighbourhoods already reporting a strain on infrastructure, parking, and increased noise. And whilst Hartlepool itself has yet to introduce Article 4 Directions (which would require planning permission for new HMOs), several neighbouring councils have already clamped down on the unchecked growth of shared housing schemes.
A decision on the Church Square application is expected within the next few months.
