RETROSPECTIVE plans to turn a Wombwell property into a House of Multiple Occupation have been submitted - and the area’s three councillors have spoken out.

The application states that the property on Hough Lane is ‘much-needed’ as a HMO and would also provide affordable accommodation for locals.

A report states: “The property is currently occupied by multiple unrelated tenants, each with their own tenancy agreement.

“The use is established and continuous.

The property has been continuously occupied and operated as a small HMO prior to and since the July 2025 inspection.

“The proposed works (fire safety upgrades, ventilation improvements, certification) do not constitute a material change in structure, but rather compliance improvements to ensure tenant safety and comfort.

“This application, therefore, seeks confirmation that the use of 108 Hough Lane as a small HMO (C4) is lawful.

“The retrospective change of use to a small HMO at 108 Hough Lane not only provides much-needed housing in Barnsley but also supports affordable accommodation for residents, thereby making a significant contribution to the community.

“On this basis, we respectfully request that the local planning authority issue a lawful development certificate confirming the lawful HMO use of the property, with the hope for a positive outcome.”

The report added that the property meets the internal space standards required in HMOs while also providing safe and accessible living arrangements.

It also said that work is ongoing to improve fire safety and environmental health compliance and respects the residential character of the surrounding areas.

However, Wombwell Couns James Higginbottom, Brenda Eastwood and Robert Frost have all said they are against the plans.

They’ve called on residents to submit their views.

In a joint statement they said: “We are concerned to see a retrospective planning application for a HMO property on Hough Lane.

“As local councillors we have made our views very clear: we do not support this application.

“There are a number of planning grounds that make this application unsuitable - including an oversupply of bedsit accommodation in Wombwell and a severe lack of parking provision on an already busy street.

“We are encouraging residents to make their views known through the planning consultation process.”

Public consultation ends on October 13 and a target decision date of October 31 has been set.