Third planning application lodged for house in multiple occupation on Long Street

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Planning application to change 71-73 Long Street to a House in Multiple Occupation

A third planning application has been submitted for a house in multiple occupation in Middleton – despite two prior refusals.

A new application has been submitted under a new agent by the applicant Hafeez Khan, who lives in Cheadle.

Formerly operating as retail and offices, the application proposes a 16-bedroom HMO across the first and second floors of the three-storey building in Middleton centre. It suggests seven car parking spaces, one disability space and 16 cycle spaces.

A previous application for the site was unanimously refused by the Planning Committee in November, after a prior refusal in March:

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/114090/planning-refused-for-16bedroom-hmo-on-long-street

The recommendation to refuse came from planning officers on the grounds of an unacceptable living environment due to ‘limited floor space’, ‘cramped and substandard communal areas’ and ‘the proximity of shared bathroom facilities to bedroom and kitchen areas’. Planning officers also noted ‘insufficient provision’ was made for storing refuse and recycling containers. 

Additionally, the proposal was ‘considered contrary’ to ‘Guidelines and Standards for Residential Development’ Policy of the adopted Rochdale Core Strategy and the National Planning Policy Framework.

18 objections have so far been received.