Plans for a six-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) in Roker are recommended for refusal by Sunderland City Council planning officers, who say the scheme would be “harmful to the character of the area”.
The proposal would transform floors above the MH Market shop at 173 Roker Avenue into an HMO. Officers argue the development is “unacceptable in principle, as it would be harmful to the character and amenities of the area due to the existing high concentration of HMOs within 100m radius of the site”.
Eight HMOs within 100m
A council report states that, if approved, the new HMO would result in “eight HMOs within 100m of the site”. The application has attracted 13 public objections, with concerns including the “overconcentration of HMOs within the area”, insufficient parking provision, noise and privacy implications, antisocial behaviour and other issues.
Representations were also submitted by Roker’s three ward councillors. Councillor Andrew Ramsey voiced concerns and referred the proposal to the planning and highways committee for determination.
Applicant's case
An earlier planning statement from Halo's Luxury Homes & Architecture Vision Ltd said the professionally-managed HMO would “meet the needs of people who require flexible housing close to employment and education”. Planning documents revealed work had already commenced on the property but remained incomplete, with plans to deliver six en-suite bedrooms and use part of the ground floor as a kitchen and lounge area.
Applicants stated that refurbishment works had transformed the “neglected building” into a “safe, attractive and energy-efficient building capable of meeting current housing needs”. They added that a structured management regime would help “minimise disturbance and ensure that communal areas remain clean, safe and properly maintained”.
Committee decision
While officers considered the proposal acceptable in terms of room sizes, highway and pedestrian safety, they concluded the plan would be “harmful to the character of the area” and maintained their recommendation for refusal. The HMO would comprise five double rooms and one single room, accommodating a maximum of 11 occupants.
The planning and highways committee is set to consider the proposal on Monday, October 19 at City Hall from 5.30pm, with members of the public welcome to attend.
