Northampton council blocks HMO plans after public objections
More than eighty locals objected, raising issues about traffic and parking
Plans to convert a two-storey home into a six-bed house in multiple occupancy (HMO) at 29 Broadway have been denied by West Northamptonshire Council, following strong opposition from local residents.
The proposal included adding extensions to accommodate three en-suite bedrooms on each floor, with communal kitchen space downstairs.
An Article 4 direction in Northampton requires landlords to obtain approved planning permission for such conversions, even though current permitted development rights allow small HMOs up to six people without needing applications.
The council's decision was swayed by 85 objection letters from concerned neighbours, who raised issues during the planning meeting on 20th August.
Ruby, a local resident, expressed her worry over losing off-road parking space and potential traffic congestion from additional vehicles.
Neighbour Peter White noted the existing parking on both sides of the road complicates traffic flow, creating frequent jams worsened by bus routes.
Ward councillors Bob Purser and Zoe Smith pointed out the significant extension and potential "excessive occupation," emphasising its impact on the home's character and neighbouring properties.
Although the planning officer had recommended approval, citing sufficient residential amenity and safety, the committee voted against the application due to overdevelopment concerns, parking constraints, and inadequate amenity provisions.
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