Plans for a controversial six-bedroom HMO in Roker face rejection over fears it would be “harmful to the character of the area”.

Sunderland City Council planning officers have recommended councillors refuse proposals to convert floors above the MH Market shop, at 173 Roker Avenue, into a house in multiple occupation.

They argue the scheme would be “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”.

A council report said the new HMO, if approved, would lead to “eight HMOs within 100m of the site”.

Plans have been submitted for a new six-bedroom HMO above a shop at 173 Roker Avenue. Photo by LDRS.

placeholder image — Plans have been submitted for a new six-bedroom HMO above a shop at 173 Roker Avenue. Photo by LDRS.

The application has attracted 13 public objections raising concerns about the “overconcentration of HMOs within the area”, lack of parking, noise and privacy impacts, antisocial behaviour and more.

There were also representations from Roker’s three ward councillors, with Councillor Andrew Ramsey raising concerns and calling the HMO plan into the planning and highways committee for decision.

A previous planning statement from Halo’s Luxury Homes & Architecture Vision said the professionally-managed HMO would “meet the needs of people who require flexible housing close to employment and education”.

Planning documents said work already started on the property but had not been completed, and plans aimed to provide six en-suite bedrooms and to use part of the ground floor as a kitchen and lounge space.

Applicants added refurbishment works had transformed the “neglected building” into a “safe, attractive and energy-efficient building capable of meeting current housing needs”.

The applicant also said a structured management regime for the property would help “minimise disturbance and ensure that communal areas remain clean, safe and properly maintained.”

Although council officers deemed the HMO plan as acceptable with regard to room sizes and highway and pedestrian safety, they concluded that the plan would be “harmful to the character of the area” and continued to recommend refusal.

A council report also noted that the HMO would provide five double rooms and one single room, which would allow a maximum of 11 occupants.

The planning and highways committee will discuss the HMO plan on Monday, October 19 at City Hall from 5.30pm. The meeting is open to the public.

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