Concerns Raised Over Proposed HMO in Wigan
Introduction
Residents in the Swinley area of Wigan share strong objections. They see a plan to change a house into an HMO. The plan targets a five‐bedroom semi‐detached home on Dicconson Street. It will provide shared living for five people. The neighbourhood now shows change. Homeowners worry that too many HMOs crowd the area.
Proposed Changes
Andrew Lyon, a director at Winstanley Property Ltd, submits the plan. He aims to create the HMO close to Wigan town centre. The plan states the house’s exterior will stay the same. This detail makes some residents uneasy. The three‐storey home offers one off‐street parking spot. The rest of the parking needs permits.
Local Residents’ Objections
Neighbours speak up with criticism. They fear that one more HMO may add to anti-social actions and a rising turnover of occupants. Paul Moorcroft, who lives next door, shares his worry. He says, "I am very worried about the house next door becoming an HMO since my home touches it. There is a high risk of anti-social behaviour. There are already too many HMOs in this area." Yvonne Taylor, another neighbour, shares a similar view. She says, "I do not favor this plan. There are already enough HMOs in our area." Many locals feel that shared living now outnumbers the families that once made up this community.
Article Four Designation
Swinley falls under an Article Four rule. This rule means owners must ask Wigan Council before changing a home into an HMO. The rule aims to keep shared housing low and hold the local bonds tight. Sue Lawless, a nearby resident, notes that the area began as a family-friendly place. "We are not NIMBYs. But there are already a huge amount of HMOs in this area," she said. Her words show the hope for a steady, strong community.
Proposed Property Details
The plan sets a cap of five residents. This cap helps keep living standards fair. It also stops the property from becoming too crowded. The cap fits the council’s goal to keep the area comfortable. Winstanley Property Ltd says it will run the house responsibly. They aim to stop any problems from harming the area.
Conclusion
Council members now review the plan. Wigan officials must decide how to handle local worries. The debate over this HMO shines a light on a common issue in many parts of the UK. Local leaders try to balance affordable rent with the need for a stable community. Concerns about anti-social behaviour, parking, and community change will likely shape the decision soon.
For those thinking about property investment, these local views serve as a sign of possible challenges ahead.
