14-bedroom HMO at The Heather Inn, Longridge

What was proposed

The application sought to convert, extend and alter a former public house into a 14-bedroom HMO, with seven rooms and a kitchen on each of two levels.

“Change of use, extension and alterations to former public house to form a 14-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) (Grid Ref: 295038,662255) at The Heather Inn, 1 Hillside Place, Longridge, West Lothian, EH47 8AN.”

“The site comprises an existing, unoccupied building that formerly was a public house. The proposal involves conversion and extension of the existing building to a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO).”

Officer report

Earlier permission

Permission was granted in 2007 for demolishing the former public house and building seven flats.

“0172/FUL/06- Demolition of existing public house and erection of seven flats- granted on 28/08/2007.”

Officer report

Why officers recommended refusal

Officers considered the extension overbearing and out of character, with inadequate parking and bins, limited local facilities, and unresolved drainage, contamination and ecology matters.

“Further, the height of the proposed rear extension and the positioning of its windows would give rise to concerns regarding overlooking and loss of privacy for the neighbouring property to the west. Overall, the proposal would appear to be overdevelopment of the site and is not appropriate as it would harm the character of the existing area and impact on the residential amenity of the area.”

“Local living 8.10 Longridge lies south of Whitburn and northeast of Fauldhouse. There are no shops, lifelong learning opportunities or health / social care facilities within the settlement boundaries. As a result of its location and the limited opportunities for employment and access to wider day-to-day facilities for future residents, the proposed development does not support the objectives of the 20-minute neighbourhood.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant’s agent spoke in support, while an objector who had requested to speak did not attend.

The committee vote

The committee unanimously agreed to refuse planning permission.

“To unanimously agree to refuse planning permission…”

Minutes

The final decision

Planning permission was refused for the 14-bedroom HMO.

“0453/FUL/26 Councillor William Boyle took no further part in the remaining items of business. The committee considered a report (copies of which had been circulated) by the Head of Planning, Economic Development and Regeneration concerning an application as follows: - Application No.”

Minutes