BCP Council (Poole): Matt Annen is pleased to have secured planning consent for internal and external alterations and conversion/change of use to a 7 bedroom HMO (Sui Generis Use) with associated cycle parking and bin store in the Parkstone area of Poole. The scheme was designed by Archigold for mutual client ESA Property.
A change of use from Use Class C3 dwellinghouse to a 6-person HMO use (Use Class C4) would have constituted permitted development. This was a material fallback position and a material planning consideration for the appointed planning officer. We put forward a firm argument that the addition of 1 more HMO bedroom via a single storey rear extension which itself could be deemed permitted development would not suddenly make the use or density unacceptable.
The officer agreed confirming in his report: “In this instance, the proposal represents a form of high-density development located within the sustainable transport corridor as identified by Policy PP2 and indicated on the Proposals Map, being located in a highly sustainable location in very close proximity to the local services and facilities and with access to the high frequency public transport service stops (bus and rail stations) and short distance away from Parkstone Rail Station, where the majority of housing and higher density development should be directed. As such, the principle of the proposed use of the property as a large-scale HMO (higher density development) is therefore acceptable in this sustainable location where higher density development is supported in accordance with the provisions of Policies PP2, PP34 and PP35”.
If you have an existing dwelling or perhaps even a C4 HMO (up to 6 beds) and are wondering about extending the building or increasing the number of residents, why not contact us and speak to one of our planning consultants