Bedsits up for approval despite raft of objections

The proposed conversion of the Xaverian Mission Spirituality Centre in Fulwood has attracted 62 objections

Plans to turn a former religious retreat into a block of bedsits are set to be given the go-ahead despite a raft of concerns from local residents.

The proposed conversion of the Xaverian Mission Spirituality Centre in the Fulwood area of Preston has attracted 62 objections from nearby households.

Concerns include the potential impact on traffic, claims that it would be the type of property to attract “criminal activity and antisocial behaviour” and that such a large house of multiple occupation would be “out of keeping with the surrounding area”.

However, Preston City Council’s planning officers have recommended members of its planning committee approve the change.

Should they agree, the Sharoe Green Lane residence –  which was home to a small group of priests for the past 26 years until they left over summer – would be converted into a 30-bedroom house.

'Aimed at NHS staff'

That tally is a reduction of one room from the plans originally submitted, the Local Democracy Reporting Service wrote.

According to a report to be presented to the committee, the firm behind the blueprint has “indicated the proposed property would be aimed at NHS staff working in the nearby Royal Preston Hospital”.   

However, officers note that the suggestion is “merely an indication at this stage”.

The sole supporter of the proposal to contact the council said there is a need for “more affordable homes for young people”.

The report states that highways officials at Lancashire County Council have made no objection to the revamp on the basis that there are 31 car parking spaces within the site – and their assessment that the likely number of trips to be generated by the conversion is “not expected to have a severe impact on the local highway network”.

It also notes that minimum housing standards have been met and concludes that the development is considered “suitable” – and would not have  “an unacceptable impact” upon neighbouring residents.