THE developer behind plans to convert an empty shop building and the flat above into a HMO have explained their vision for the property.

As previously reported by the Warrington Guardian, proposals have been drawn up for a change of use from vacant Orford shop and flat to a six-bed HMO, or house of multiple occupation.

This is along with a rear dormer extension and external alterations to the property, which sits on the corner of Gorsey Lane and Quebec Road.

It as also been reported that neighbours are unhappy with the plans in principle, raising concerns over prior notice, traffic, parking and questions over who will be living there.

Now, applicant LDT Property Development has moved to explain what it aims to do with the building if permission is granted, and released photos of the standard of HMO it is looking to create.

Callum Turner, an Orford resident who is a director at the business, said: “LDT Property Development is made up of two people – myself and Charlie, who lives in Appleton.

“We both care massively about our community, and keeping it a safe and nice environment to live in is our utmost priority.

“This property has been empty for 10 years, and it requires a massive uplift to get it to any kind of living standard.

“The conversion will be into a six-bed, all en-suite HMO, which will house a maximum of six people.

An example of the standard of HMO LDT says it is looking to create

An example of the standard of HMO LDT says it is looking to create

“It will be done up to a very high standard in a boutique hotel style, with all rooms well over the council's stated minimum room size requirements.

“As you can imagine if we are doing it up to this standard, we are going to want the best possible tenants in the rooms.”

Callum goes on to say: “The property will be let out through a letting agency that will be doing all the correct checks on the tenants before moving in.

“This property will not be handed over to a social housing agency or anything of the kind.

“The tenants will be working professionals who are either working out of town and need somewhere nice to stay for six-plus months, or young professionals who cannot yet afford a property during the housing crisis we are currently in.”

In planning documents, applicant LDT Property Development said: “The proposal makes use of an existing vacant building that is in need of repair and refurbishment.

“The proposals to convert to an existing vacant shop and flat above meet all planning policy requirements to convert to a much-needed HMO in this area of Warrington.”

To view the application, visit warrington.gov.uk quoting reference 2024/01147/FUL.