Three-person HMO at 120 Healey Wood Road, Burnley

“Proposal Change of use from C3 dwelling house to C4 house in multiple occupation for 3 residents following the Article 4 Direction. No external alterations proposed. Location 120 Healey Wood Road, Burnley, Lancashire BB11 2LN”

“Planning permission is sought for the change of use and conversion of a two- bedroom terraced house into a three-bedroom HMO for three residents (House in Multiple Occupation).”

“A number of consultee and public comments have been received and considered throughout this report. The proposal would not result in an adverse accumulation of HMOs in the area. Through planning conditions, the effect on the amenity of attached neighbours (given it is mid terrace property) and future occupiers can be minimised.”

“It is recommended that planning permission be granted subject to the following Conditions:”

“BBC Environmental Health – No objection • Request a scheme of enhanced acoustic insulation between dwellings to be secured by planning condition.”

“BBC Housing – No objection • Based on the submitted plans, the bedrooms meet the minimum room sizes for single occupancy bedrooms with a communal living space. The property meets the minimum required size for kitchen facilities and meets the required washing facilities and toilets as outlined in the Council HMO Standards 2018 for Houses in Multiple Occupation.”

“Six objections have been received from members of the public, one of which is from a county councillor, and are summarised as follows: • Number of HMOs creates an imbalance that undermines community cohesion and the residential nature of the area. • Parking is already limited, and additional occupants particularly unrelated adults with separate vehicles will increase congestion and competition for spaces.”

“Officer Note: The National Planning Policy Framework Paragraph 96 seeks to ensure that development is inclusive, and the fear of crime does not undermine quality of life, community cohesion and resilience. The courts have held that the fear of crime can be a material consideration. However, there must be some reasonable evidential basis for that fear.”

“That the application be approved subject to conditions.”

“Notwithstanding details shown within the planning application, prior to the first occupation details of bin storage and secure storage for three bicycles shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The approved details shall be implemented prior to first occupation of any of the rooms.”