'Unacceptable' seven-bed HMO blocked by council

The planned HMO at Riverside Terrace has been refused over concerns it would harm the area

Plans for a new shared home have been blocked after being labelled "unacceptable" and "harmful" by council development chiefs.

Sunderland City Council has refused proposals for a house in multiple occupation (HMO) at Riversdale Terrace in Sunderland's Millfield ward, due to the number already in the area and risk of anti-social behaviour.

Planners said the house, which was proposed to be converted into a seven-bedroom dwelling across three floors, would "lead to an overconcentration of HMOs" if approved.

The applicant has the right to challenge the council refusal decision by lodging an appeal with the Secretary of State.

The initial proposed site plan showed all HMO bedrooms offering an en-suite bathroom, and some bedrooms served by kitchenettes.

It also stated there would be a bin storage area and noted no parking would be provided, although plans were later amended to provide one space, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

'Undermine quality of life'

Council planners said there would be "adequate living space and an acceptable standard of amenity" for future occupants.

But they said its approval would result in the number of HMOs exceeding 10% of all residential properties within 100m (328ft), which went against council planning guidance.

They said the plans were an "inappropriate development" and would work against "the aim of creating places that are safe, inclusive and accessible...where crime and disorder, and the fear of crime, do not undermine the quality of life or community cohesion and resilience".

Northumbria Police also objected to those living in rooms on the second floor having to "travel the full height of the building to store food and prepare meals", as well as the "small amount of external space" and "potential for anti-social behaviour to spill out into the surrounding locality".

Council planners concluded it would be "unacceptable as it would be considered to be harmful to the character and amenities of the area".