BARNSLEY Council’s decision to reject a planning application for a 13-bed house of multiple occupation has been overruled - after the firm behind the controversial bid appealed against the local authority.
Manor Court, on Churchfield Lane, Kexborough, is a former care home but plans were lodged to convert it into a HMO - a move which was met with fury by local residents and councillors.
Applicant Conrad Baranyai and owner Claire Atkinson were refused permission by the council’s planning board, but then lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate.
Following site visits from inspector Andrew Hickey, he overturned the council’s decision and subsequently granted permission.
However, the Chronicle can reveal that it will be reduced from 13 to ten beds.
Mr Hickey’s report said: “Concerns have been raised that suggest that antisocial behaviour or crime is likely to increase through the presence of a HMO.
“This is a fear of crime - the fear of crime can be a material consideration in a planning application, however, there must be a reasonable and evidential basis for that fear.
“There is no convincing evidence before me to suggest that the development would give rise to antisocial behaviour, such as high noise levels or crime that would warrant the refusal of the scheme.
“The issue of impact on property values has also been raised - it’s a well-founded principle that the planning system does not exist to protect private interests such as value of land or property.
“I note the strong opposition to the use of the premises as a HMO, however, there is no compelling evidence that the proposed scheme for residential accommodation cannot assimilate within this existing residential area similar to the existing permitted use.
“There is also no compelling evidence that the proposed use will place a greater strain on nearby services and facilities than the permitted use as a care home.
“A condition relating to the HMO maximum occupancy of the property is necessary in the interests of amenity and living conditions.
“The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for the change of use.”
Claire said the facility is ‘much-needed’ and a deal could be struck with the NHS to house workers from abroad or outside of Barnsley who are in need of accommodation.
She told the Chronicle: “We’ve got 13 bedrooms, two lounges, a dining room a kitchen.
“They’re all a good standard.
“We have a housing crisis and this is going to help.
“The people that are going to be living here are going to be professional workers - it’s not going to be abused.
“I wouldn’t let anyone in that I wouldn’t want to live next door to and I’m confident there won’t be any issues at this property.
“People were worried about the type of people - we have a strict vetting process.
“It’s gong to be a well-run establishment.
“We’re very transparent in terms of what we’re doing and what we want to do.”
