It is extremely welcome that the proposed seven-bedroom House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) on Long Lane in Chadderton has been refused by Oldham Council’s Planning Committee.
I wrote to the Council in August setting out my concerns about this application, including: the impact on the character of the area, neighbouring amenity, parking and highway safety; the relationship with the adjoining nursery; the quality of accommodation proposed; and the loss of an established commercial premises on a purpose built parade.
There is understandable local concern on the growth and concentration of HMOs across the borough, and it’s obvious the register of HMOs barely scratches the surface of the real number.
The Committee has now refused the application on highway safety grounds.
Thanks to Councillor Graham Shuttleworth and others who spoke against the application.
