Six-bedroom HMO extension at Lloyds Bank Plc, Portchester, Fareham

What was proposed

The application sought a mixed Class E and six-bedroom HMO use, with a second-storey extension and retained ground-floor retail space.

“CHANGE OF USE FROM A CLASS E TO A MIXED USE CLASS E AND 6 BEDROOM HOUSE OF MULTIPLE OCCUPATION (SUI GENERIS) AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A SECOND STOREY”

“Description of Proposal 3.1 The application seeks permission for the change of use of the existing building and a second storey extension to create a 6-bed House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) whilst retaining a class E use to the front and centre of the building at ground floor.”

Officer report

The site

The vacant former bank occupies a corner plot in Portchester precinct, with the building mainly three storeys and a lower two-storey corner.

“Site Description 2.1 The application site is located within Portchester precinct on a corner plot towards the eastern end of the pedestrianised area. The front of the building faces onto the pedestrianised area of the precinct and there is an alleyway on the eastern side of the building leading to the public car park.”

“The existing building is currently vacant and was last occupied by Lloyds Bank. The building is predominantly 3 storeys in height with a lower area on the north eastern corner at two storeys.”

Officer report

Planning history

There was no relevant planning history for the property.

“Relevant Planning History 5.1 There is no relevant planning history associated with this property.”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended permission because the amended proposal was acceptable in principle, respected the area, protected amenity, provided suitable transport arrangements and addressed habitat effects.

“The proposal, as amended, aims to keep the majority of the ground floor as retail units and proposes to convert the upper floors to residential accommodation. Therefore, Officers consider that the principle of development of the land is acceptable subject to all other material considerations.”

“To fulfil the requirements under the Habitat Regulations, Officers have carried out an AA in relation to the likely significant effects of the proposed development on the HS. The key considerations within the assessment of the likely significant effects are set out below.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Natural England raised no objection subject to mitigation, and officers concluded that conditions and mitigation would protect habitat sites.

“Natural England 7.1 No objection subject to mitigation being secured.”

Officer report

Residents’ views

Support and objections were received, with concerns including pressure on resources, retail loss, parking, noise, crime, anti-social behaviour and character.

“Representations 6.1 One letter of support and twelve letters of objection were received during the initial 21-day period for comment from 10 different addresses which raise the following concerns:”

“Additional pressure on local resources • Loss of retail space • Impact on parking within the area for residents and visitors • Noise disturbance • Potential rise in crime and anti-social behaviour…”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee received deputations, and a councillor addressed the committee; another councillor declared a personal interest after discussions with deputees.

The vote

Members voted nine in favour and none against the officer recommendation and delegated authority concerning the conditions.

“Upon being proposed and seconded the officer recommendation to: -”

“Was voted on and CARRIED. (Voting: 9 in favour; 0 against)”

Minutes

The decision

The committee granted planning permission subject to the conditions and delegated authority to modify, delete or add conditions.

“(i) GRANT planning permission, subject to: -”

“(ii) DELEGATE authority to the Head of Planning to: -”

Minutes