‘HMO risk’ objectors disappointed as Shalford Road home extension given the green light
The Shalford Road home being extended(Image: Google Maps)
A planning chief said he would reluctantly give his approval to a house extension despite fears it could become a HMO.
Applicant Raj Sharma submitted a plan to extend an address in Shalford Road, Solihull and make the garage a habitable space, in March.
It was referred to Solihull Council ’s planning committee for a final decision after 13 neighbours lodged objections during a public consultation.
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Neighbour Mr Cooper said: “Shalford Road is already under significant pressure with many homes reliant on on-site parking due to narrow driveways that only fit one car.
“The proposed development would increase occupancy and vehicle numbers while removing off-site parking via the garage conversion.”
The applicant said the extension would be used as a gym and study area – but that was challenged by Mr Cooper.
Under permitted development rights homes can be turned into small house of multiple occupation (HMO) for no more than six people.
“Although the application does not state a change of use the applicant’s background in HMO developments suggests this property may be converted,” the speaker added.
The garage to be linked with the Shalford Road home to create an extension(Image: Google Maps)
Opening the members’ debate, Coun Bob Grinsell, chairman of the committee, said: “We have heard what Mr Cooper has had to say, but members, we have been here before.
“I would remind you we can only consider what is in front of us, not what something could be in years to come.
“I’m not a fan of this backdoor kind of happening.”
Coun Grinsell said council planning officers had recommended approval subject to conditions including the extension be for “ancillary use only”.
“I don’t think parking would increase because there are no habitable rooms being added,” he said.
Coun Grinsell then asked the officers if a condition could be added to remove permitted rights.
Planning officer Jon Hallam replied: “Could that be achievable – in principle yes but government guidance states that in removing rights from any property there has to be exceptional circumstances why those rights should be removed.
“In this situation it is an existing house, even without these works it could be converted into a HMO.
Solihull Council planning committee meeting(Image: Sam Greenway LDR)
“There are so many houses in this street, surrounding streets and throughout the borough in a similar situation that have the potential to be changed.
“So officers’ view is there are certainly not exceptional reasons to remove rights for such a change.
“If there is an issue that is something to take up with a higher level, central government, on what is allowed.
“There are some things as a local authority we have to accept.”
Coun Grinsell said: “If you find as neighbours it is not being used for ancillary purposes talk to your local councillor please – that is about as helpful as I can be.”
When the vote was taken the chairman added “reluctantly I’m putting my hand in the air (to approve)”.
All nine committee members voted in favour with none against during the meeting held at the Civic Suite on June 18.