4-bed HMO conversion at 113 Imeary Street, South Shields

“Applicants: Zen Suku Ltd Proposal: Change of use from 2 bed first and second floor flat to a House in multiple occupation (HMO) (4 Bed) and dormer window extension to rear roof slope.”

“A Site visit was conducted on the 22 nd June 2026. The site visit was carried out with the prior approval of the Chair. The need for the site visit in advance was to view the site and consider the objections to the proposals.”

“A member noted the parking pressures and the cumulative impact of registered and known unregistered HMOs were a concern, as well as the lack of communal space for proposed residents.”

“A member noted the lack of communal space and raised concerns about the tenants mental health which they believed should also be a factor. There was also concern about the amount of anti-social behaviour (ASB) already in the Westoe area and that more HMOs would worsen this situation.”

“The application was proposed to be rejected by Cllr Oughton and seconded by Cllr Medcalf. A vote was carried with a vote of 12 to 1 to refuse the application for the following reason:”

“The Local Planning Authority considers that the proposed change of use to a House in Multiple Occupation would, as a result of the cumulative effects of such uses in the area, adversely impact on the character of the area and upon the amenity of existing occupiers, contrary to Policy DM1 of the South Tyneside Local Development Framework, Policy 16 of the South Tyneside Publication draft Local Plan and Paragraph 135(f) of the NPPF.”