Residents object to plans for gym to become HMO

The residents said they feared the HMO would create anti-social behaviour

Residents gathered outside a former gym to protest against plans to turn it into a 10-bed shared house.

Objectors outside the property on Crosby Street, Darlington, said they feared the proposed house in multiple occupation (HMO) would lead to anti-social behaviour and disrupt the area.

Applicant Jamie Byrne has lodged plans to convert the building, which formerly housed the Trojan Fitness gym, with Darlington Borough Council.

Mr Byrne has been contacted for comment.

Commenting on the planning application online, Paula Peterson said: "This will be right between two schools, the parking is already pushed to capacity - neighbours don't want this."

She said the proposal was "absolutely disgraceful", according to the Local Democracy Reporting service.

Lucy Young said the development would "undermine the character of the area" and reduce the "quality of life for existing residents".

"This is a ludicrous idea and a total misuse of the building," resident Matthew Groves said.

No further details about the proposal have been made public.

Darlington Borough Council will consider the application in due course.

The authority is set to introduce new planning rules that will make it tougher for landlords to convert properties into shared housing.

It follows growing concern from residents and local communities about the increased use of HMOs in the borough, particularly in areas near the town centre.