The use of a residential property in Churncote, Stirchley, as a six-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) has been confirmed as lawful by Telford & Wrekin Council. This decision comes despite objections from local residents regarding parking issues, which they argue are already problematic in the area.
Residents voiced their concerns during a council meeting, stating that Churncote is a small family street with insufficient parking for existing households. One resident described the proposal to accommodate six cars at a single property as “ridiculous” and predicted it would exacerbate existing parking challenges.
In response to these objections, the council is currently considering the implementation of an Article 4 directive. If approved, this would empower planners to take parking difficulties into account when assessing future developments. Nevertheless, in this particular case, planners have determined that the property can operate as a six-bed HMO under current permitted development rights.
Planners communicated this decision to applicant Jatinder Singh, highlighting that the intended use is permissible as long as the HMO does not exceed occupancy of six individuals. They noted, “The proposed use and development benefits from permitted development rights.”
The property’s agent, Amandeep Singh of W13 Ltd, emphasized that the conversion involves only internal modifications without any significant external changes. This approach maintains the residential character of the property and its surroundings. In a design and access statement submitted to the council, Singh stated, “The conversion has been carefully considered to ensure it meets high amenity and management standards.”
Singh further reassured that the self-contained bedrooms will adhere to or surpass the space requirements for HMO use. The intent, he explained, is to provide secure and comfortable accommodation for professionals or local key workers, thereby enhancing the local housing supply.
The proposal aims to demonstrate that the change of use can occur without negatively affecting neighboring properties or the overall environment. Singh argued that the development would not detract from the visual quality of Churncote, ensuring that the property continues to enhance the local streetscape and community.
As the council continues to evaluate local planning regulations, the outcome of the proposed Article 4 directive remains to be seen. For now, the six-bed HMO at Churncote stands approved, reflecting ongoing discussions about balancing development needs with community concerns in Telford.
