Student HMO conversion at 15 Auckland Drive, Brighton

What was proposed

The application concerned full planning permission for 15 Auckland Drive, with a change of use to accommodation for more than six people sharing.

“Councillor Nann was informed that the Use Class was Sui Generis as there would be more than 6 persons sharing the dwelling. It was noted the applicant could use permitted development rights for the physical works if they wished and the application is for the change of use.”

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The property and surroundings

The property was described as an existing HMO, with a film school opposite and no other HMO within 50 metres.

“Joseph Pearson addressed the committee as the agent acting on behalf of the applicant and stated that the property would be quality student accommodation and there no other Homes of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) within 50m of the location. The house is already an HMO and has been for the last 20 years. The council’s city plan calls for mixed communities, not just families. A film school is opposite. The extensions could be constructed under Permitted Development Rights (PDR).”

“Councillor Thomson was informed that the proximity of the film school had no impact on the calculations of HMOs. It was noted that there was no loss of a family home, there was 32sqm communal space, and sound proofing to adjoining property. The Environmental Health team or other agencies will cover any noise or anti-social behaviour reports.”

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Concerns about the proposal

The ward councillor objected to the design, roof extension, noise, disturbance and increase from five to eight occupiers.

“Ward Councillor Taylor addressed the committee and stated that Bevendean was perfect for families, with homes built in the 1940/50/60s close to the Downs, parks and schools. These are the future of the city. The council are buying back homes. The application should be considered under policies DM1, DM7 – the scheme was not good quality with the scale and form of the roof extension being harmful to the host building. The application is against policies CP12, DM18 and DM21.”

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Who spoke

The ward councillor spoke against the application, while the agent said it would provide quality student accommodation and support mixed communities.

The committee voted

The committee voted by eight to one to grant planning permission.

“A vote was held, and by 8 to 1, the committee agreed to grant planning permission.”

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The permission was granted

Planning permission was granted subject to the conditions and informatives in the report.

“RESOLVED: That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the Conditions and Informatives in the report.”

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