Two residential units at 61 Chakeshill Drive, Bristol

“Conversion from single dwelling to 1no. 2-bedroom flat and 1no. 3-bedroom maisonette (C3). External alterations to rear elevation, including roof dormer and rear extension.”

“Planning consent is sought for subdivision of the property into two flats (C3). Revised plans have been provided during the application period. The revised plans now include installation of a cycle locker and refuse store in the front garden area and location of the air-source heat pump in rear garden. Plans confirm the size of each flat and intended occupancy. The flats would be a ground floor two-bedroom two-person unit and three bedroom three-person upper maisonette.”

“The application relates to a two storey five-bedroom mid terrace dwelling situated within the Henbury ward of the city. The property has been occupied as a house in multiple occupation (HMO) under a council Mandatory HMO Licence since 2020. The property lies within an established residential area, with the proportion of houses to flats within the Henbury ward of 67.2%/32.7% based on 2021 Census data.”

“A Certificate of lawfulness (reference number 24/04148/CP) was issued November 2024 in relation to the application property, for a loft conversion including roof dormer and a single storey rear extension at the application property. The proposed physical works are almost identical to those proposed under the current application.”

“The application has been advertised by way of neighbour notifications. Three objections have been received on the following summarised grounds - -Intensity of occupation of the property/ potential uplift in occupation/ intensification of HMO -Impact on light to adjoining property -Increase in parking demand associated with increase in occupants -Impact of the extensions on adjacent property -Destruction of outbuilding straddling boundary (Case Officer note -this building is…”

“I am objecting to this proposal on the following grounds: Use as an HMO - The existing property is currently being used as an HMO. It has four bedrooms within. This latest development is seeking to enlarge the HMO to five bedrooms. That is the reality of the situation. Such a large number of people in a limited footprint sets a dangerous precedent for future planning applications.”

“- Size/Scale/Massing - The proposed development and its extensions are inconsistent with the scale and character of the surrounding properties. The new ground-floor structure would have a footprint significantly larger than the existing building. Additionally, the introduction of a second floor would further disrupt the character of the area and impact neighbouring properties.”

“Councillor Rob Bryher moved, seconded by Councillor Andrew Varney and upon being put to the vote, it was…”

“RESOLVED (4 for, 2 against, 2 abstentions) – that the application be approved subject to conditions contained in the report.”