Objections Raised Against Proposed HMO Conversion in Wigan
A plan exists to change a five-bedroom house on Dicconson Street in Wigan into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The conversion is put forward by Andrew Lyon, director of Winstanley Property Ltd, to suit five people. Local residents voice concerns. Their worries come fast as the plan draws near to the town centre.
Concerns from Neighbours
Neighbour Paul Moorcroft, 57, stands near the property. He warns his home may suffer from anti-social actions. “I fear the house next door will turn into an HMO. My house touches it, and I see a high risk of problems,” he says. Paul adds that many HMOs now fill the area.
Resident Yvonne Taylor says much of the same. “I do not like this change. This area already has enough HMOs,” she says.
Sue Lawless, 59, looks at other parts of the area. “Our houses touch Bridgeman Terrace. Here, three HMOs lie close by and more exist nearby. This used to be a place where families grew their children, but many families leave now,” she says. Sue shares that she has lived with others before. “I do not stand against change. Yet, too many HMOs make the area busy and unstable.”
Planning Policy and Regulations
The area holds an ‘Article Four’ status. This rule makes planning permission required before any HMO conversion. It helps check local worries fully.
Winstanley Property Ltd shows in its plan that the house will keep good features. The plan says details like bins and recycling bins will be in place. The look of the building stays the same and its local style will hold strong.
The plan adds that the home has three levels. A yard lies at the back and off-street parking serves one vehicle. The plan also meets parking rules that let expected HMO residents gain residential parking permits.
Managing HMO Development
The plan states that up to five people will live there. A set of rules can be built into the plan to keep the house quiet. These rules include limits on noise and clear care for the shared spaces.
As people discuss HMOs, residents worry about changes in their community and stress on local services. A mix of short-term residents can change the neighborhood fast. The debate calls for care with rules that suit both investors and stable communities.
Conclusion
The plan for the HMO on Dicconson Street stirs strong feelings among local residents. They see the change as one that may disrupt long-term life. As Winstanley Property Ltd waits for more input from the council and local groups, the plan shows how important it is for local rules to keep balance. This issue pits property changes against the need to keep stable communities.
For more details on the plan and the feedback process, check the Wigan Council planning site or take part in local community groups.
For further reading and official details on HMOs and local rules in Wigan, please see these links:
- Wigan Council Planning Portal
- Housing in Multiple Occupation – Guidance
- Local Democracy Reporting Service
If you have any more questions on HMOs or property matters, contact your local authorities or property groups.
