Four-person small HMO at 476 Cannock Road, Springfield, Wolverhampton

What was proposed

The application sought to change a three-bedroom home into a four-person house in multiple occupation, with four bedrooms and shared facilities.

“Summary recommendation 1.1 Grant 2.0 Application site 2.1 The application site is a three-bedroom residential property, located on a main arterial route in and out of The City of Wolverhampton (A460). The area is predominantly residential, and within proximity to shopping facilities, and public transport. Application details 3.1 Change of Use to a house in multiple occupation for four persons.”

Officer report

Current use

The property was being rented as a dwelling for two occupants, although a neighbour questioned whether it was already an HMO.

“There are good separation distances between properties externally, and items such as bin storage and cycle storage have been located away from the neighbouring property, to address any possible noise issues. Necessary sound insultation, providing protection for both neighbours and future occupiers, would be necessary and can be conditioned as part of the planning decision. A neighbour has questioned that the use is already in use.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The planning officer presented the application, and the transport lead confirmed that the parking provision was acceptable.

Members’ discussion

Members were assured that the management plan would mitigate HMO-related issues, and agreed that a noise mitigation condition would be added.

“The report was considered by Committee, and the Planning Officer responded to questions asked. She assured members that the stringent application process and restrictive management plan put forward by the applicant, would help mitigate any possible issues associated with houses in multiple occupation.”

“Gerwyn Owen, Professional Lead - Transport Strategy reaffirmed that the parking provisions were acceptable; and in response to concerns regarding noise disturbance, it was agreed that a noise mitigation condition would be implemented.”

Minutes

The committee vote

A councillor moved the officer recommendations, another councillor seconded them, and the committee supported the application.

“It was acknowledged that concerns raised by the police had been satisfactorily addressed, and members of the Committee supported the application.”

“Councillor Alan Butt moved the recommendations within the report. Councillor Rashpal Kaur seconded the recommendations.”

Minutes

The final decision

The application was granted subject to management, parking-related, security, lighting, tenancy, electric vehicle charging and noise mitigation conditions.

“That planning application 25/01356/FUL be granted subject to the following conditions: • Management Plan • Cycle Parking • Bin Storage • CCTV • Security • Lighting • Rent With Confidence Scheme • EV Charging Point • Noise Mitigation Plan…”

Minutes