Solicitors' office to be turned into 25-bed HMO

The Hartlepool Development Corporation approved the plan next to another HMO

Plans to turn a former solicitors' office into a 25-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) have been given the go-ahead.

The Hartlepool Development Corporation approved the plans of Borthwick Properties for the former Smith and Graham Solicitors office on Church Street, Hartlepool.

Plans were approved at the end of last year to convert the building next door, which was also previously used by the same firm, into a 12-bed HMO.

"The proposed HMO is located in a sustainable location within the town centre and provides an appropriate use for this listed building," planning documents said.

An objection had been raised by councillor Corinne Male, who represents the Burn Valley ward on Hartlepool Borough Council where the site is located.

She said she was concerned about the "low standard" of accommodation being proposed, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

"Burn Valley ward as a whole is unfortunately over-provided with HMO conversions, some of which are causing continual problems for local residents," she said.

A planning statement in support of the development claimed the use as a HMO property would be "the most beneficial" for the building, which is in an "ideal location".

The HMO would include a mixture of double and single bed rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms.