Plans for an eight-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) in Cardiff have been refused by the local council, with officials citing detrimental effects on the community and local infrastructure. The application, submitted by Pure Properties, sought to convert 56 Miskin Street in Cathays into a large sui generis HMO, described as offering both privacy and communal spaces.
Reasons for refusal
The officer's report recommending refusal stated that the change of use would increase the number of HMOs in the vicinity, harming the existing community's composition, cohesion, character, functionality, and sense of place. It also warned that the proposal could exacerbate negative impacts from transient residents, placing additional pressure on the social community and physical infrastructure. Furthermore, the report highlighted potential for increased crime and anti-social behaviour due to prolonged vacancies reducing passive surveillance.
Local councillors' objections
Cathays ward councillors Sarah Merry, Norma Mackie, and Chris Weaver, the latter currently leading Cardiff Council, formally objected to the proposal. In their letter, they noted that a higher proportion of transient residents would increase cumulative impacts on social community and physical infrastructure. They also raised concerns about potential flooding, insufficient light levels in one proposed room, and inadequate amenity space for the number of tenants.
The councillors argued that the plans did not clearly meet minimum requirements for amenity space, as per local standards.
Applicant's response
Despite the refusal, the application stated that the design would comply with local authority and building regulations, ensuring a compliant, sustainable, and appealing accommodation solution. It noted that target residents would be professionals or students, with the design aiming for a modern, comfortable, low-maintenance environment that fosters community while respecting individual privacy. The proposal also included ground-floor rear extensions.
