RETROSPECTIVE plans to create a seven-bed house of multiple occupation in Darfield have been met with disdain from local councillors - who say they are concerned with the potential risk of antisocial behaviour.

Plans were submitted to the planning board to change the use of the property on Barnsley Road recently.

The public are able to have their say on the plans until Tuesday.

A report states: “Neighbouring amenity will not be adversely affected, with no impacts arising in terms of privacy, outlook, or overshadowing.

“The established parking arrangements are adequate to serve the development, and the sustainable location of the property further reduces reliance on private car use.

“The retention of this use responds positively to the identified need for good quality, affordable shared housing in the locality, particularly for students, young professionals, and key workers.”

If a councillor is on the planning board they are unable to submit their views on the plans as they would be unable to vote.

Coun Kevin Osborne, who represents the Darfield ward, is not on the board and has subsequently submitted an objection to the application.

He said: “Barnsley Road is a predominantly residential area with a strong sense of community and long-standing family homes.

“Introducing an HMO risk altering the character of the neighbourhood, potentially leading to increased transience and reduced community cohesion.

“HMOs typically generate higher occupancy levels than single-family homes, often resulting in multiple vehicles per household.

“Barnsley Road already experiences significant parking pressures, and this development could exacerbate congestion, reduce road safety, and inconvenience existing residents.

“Higher occupancy levels may place additional strain on local infrastructure and services, including waste collection, GP surgeries, and public transport.

“These services are not currently scaled to accommodate intensified residential use at this location.”

Coun Osborne also raised his concerns regarding the potential of antisocial behaviour and said that should the plans be approved, it could set a further precedent for similar applications in his ward - something he is against.

He added: “While not all HMOs lead to disruption, there is a documented correlation between poorly managed HMOs and increased noise complaints, littering, and antisocial behaviour.

“This is particularly concerning given the proximity to a school, family homes, and vulnerable residents.

“Approving this application could set a precedent for further HMO conversions in Darfield, leading to an over saturation that undermines the area’s residential stability.

“A strategic, community-led approach to housing is essential, not piecemeal speculative conversions.”

He has urged residents to have their say on the plans.

He said: “Neither Pauline Markham nor I serve on the planning regulatory board so are free to place our objections into the public domain.

“I urge all residents with concerns to express their views.”