Developer Appeals Wolverhampton HMO Rejection Amid Crime and Community Fears
A controversial plan to convert a Wolverhampton home into a six-bed house of multiple occupation (HMO), which was rejected over fears it would exacerbate crime and disrupt community cohesion, could still proceed after the developer lodged an appeal with the government's planning inspectorate. The City of Wolverhampton Council turned down the application for the property on Woden Road in Heath Town, citing concerns that the proposal failed to promote a safe and accessible environment and would likely lead to further crime and disorder.
Police Objections Highlight Risks to Family-Oriented Street
West Midlands Police strongly objected to the plans, warning that allowing another HMO in Woden Road risked transforming the "stable, family-oriented street" into a "more transient, high-turnover environment." The force's design out crime officer expressed concerns that this change could create a harmful cumulative impact, degrade residential amenity, increase crime and safety risks, and place unjustified pressure on the local area.
The police noted that vulnerable individuals, including those with alcohol or drug dependencies, mental health issues, learning difficulties, and ex-offenders, are often housed in similar HMOs. They argued that such accommodations "may not provide a safe environment for some elements of society" due to shared communal facilities and a lack of private space for tenants. Additionally, the force highlighted that HMOs typically experience high resident turnover, which can lead to a lack of engagement, pride, and ownership within the community.
Council Cites Space Standards and Noise Concerns
The council's planners raised multiple issues with the application from Dean Investment Properties. They pointed out that the majority of the proposed rooms fell below already tight space standards, and communal areas such as the kitchen, dining room, and living room were insufficient for six people. The council also anticipated increased noise and disturbance for neighbors, citing "greater comings and goings" from the HMO compared to the existing family home.
In a detailed report, the council explained: "The change of use from a family dwelling to a house in multiple occupation for six people each acting as a separate household, with their own friends, families, lifestyles, and patterns and times of movements would be significantly greater and in stark comparison to a single-family home. The activity generated by both people and vehicles, as well as the likelihood of requiring additional refuse facilities will have a detrimental impact on the character of the area."
The report further emphasized that the proposal would detract from the present level and quality of residential amenity, significantly increasing the potential for noise and disturbance at different times of the day and night.
Appeal Puts Decision in Hands of Planning Inspector
Despite these objections, Dean Investment Properties has appealed the council's decision, meaning a government planning inspector will now have the final say and the power to overrule the local authority. The original application sought permission to demolish a side extension, build a new rear extension, and convert the loft to accommodate the six-room HMO.
The council had previously stated that the wider area already experiences high levels of crime, and the HMO proposal would likely add to the fear of crime and undermine community cohesion. With the appeal underway, residents and officials await the inspector's ruling, which will determine whether the HMO can proceed despite the significant concerns raised by both the council and police.
