Plans approved for ‘run-down’ house in Orford to become 8-bed HMO

Planning permission had previously been granted for the property on West Avenue to be turned into a four-bed HMO for six occupants.

Now, plans to expand the capacity of the HMO have been granted by Warrington Borough Council.

The ‘run-down’ house will be transformed into an 8-bed HMO after internal reconfiguration is complete.

Floorplans submitted with the application in August show that four bedrooms will be situated on the ground floor, converting the living room, lounge and garage from communal spaces into rooms with ensuites.

“Shared accommodation makes an important contribution to the availability of a diverse housing stock that serves the needs of a large segment of society including graduates, young professionals, key workers, young entrepreneurs, single households saving for a deposit or those unable to get on the housing ladder,” the application states.

“Good standard shared homes offer an excellent and affordable way to live.”

Pictures submitted with the application for 2 West Avenue show what the inside could look like (Image: Mark Gordon Design and Associates)

A design and access statement was also submitted with the application, stating that the property would be the only HMO in the area.

“Whilst Warrington Council has an Article four direction in certain parts of the borough, it does not have a specific planning policy to restrict HMOs in this part or a policy to limit the number of HMOs within a set radius to avoid their over-concentration,” it reads.

“However, having reviewed the Warrington HMO License register there are no HMOs in the vicinity of the site.

“On this basis, it is not considered that the proposed development would contribute to an over-concentration of HMOs within the area, to the extent that would have an adverse effect on residential amenities and the character of the area.”

Warrington Borough Council has approved the planning application, subject to conditions including that the development is commenced within the next three years.

“All materials to be used in the scheme shall be as stated on the application form and approved drawings and shall not be varied without the prior written approval on the Local Planning authority,” the decision notice read.

“No more than 8 persons shall live at the property at any one time.”