Residents in a Darlington community have criticised “ludicrous” plans to open a ten-bed shared house.
Objectors gathered outside the property on Crosby Street, saying they fear the proposed house in multiple occupation (HMO) would lead to anti-social behaviour and disrupt the area.
Applicant Jamie Byrne has applied to convert the building, which formerly housed the Trojan Fitness gym.
Local concern
Paula Peterson, who lives nearby, said: “Absolutely disgraceful that yet another HMO is pencilled in for this area. This will be right between two schools. The parking is already pushed to capacity. Neighbours don’t want this.”
Converting such a large building into housing also poses high fire and safety risks, residents warned. Lucy Young added: “This scale of use would undermine the character of the area and reduce the safety, amenity, and quality of life for existing residents. I therefore urge the council to refuse this application.”
Residents say the safety of several young families living in the area could be threatened. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “I have young children and they have made many new friends since moving here. It’s lovely to see them all playing out and enjoying life, and I don’t feel that it could continue. It’s a shame that the building is empty, but this isn’t a solution.”
“This is a ludicrous idea and a total misuse of the building,” Matthew Groves added.
No further details about the proposal have been revealed. Mr Byrne was contacted for comment.
Darlington Borough Council will consider the application in due course.
HMO concerns
It follows growing concern from residents and local communities about the increased usage of HMOs throughout the borough, particularly in areas near the town centre.
The local authority is set to introduce new planning rules that will make it tougher for landlords to convert properties into shared housing.
The regulations, known as an Article 4 Direction, will require landlords to apply for planning permission before creating Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). ]
Earlier this year, Greenbank Road residents warned that landlords are contributing to the “uncontrolled transformation” of their neighbourhood.
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