CIA Waterlooville: Decision looms on plans for 12-bed HMO at empty shop
Plans for a 12-bedroom HMO in an empty security system shop could get the go-ahead this week.
Developers are eyeing up the former Christie Intruder Alarms store for a mixed-use development.
The proposals outline transforming the site into a commercial unit with eight one-bedroom flats and a 12-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO).
If approved, the building in London Road, Waterlooville, would be extended upwards to create three storeys. A fourth floor set back from the main building would also be constructed.
The proposals, submitted by Rob Vandenberghe, state that the mixed-use proposal would “make more effective use of the site”.
The plans read: “The provision of nine additional residential units would contribute to the borough’s housing need and represents a modest benefit. There would also be economic benefits arising from the construction and future spending of occupants, and a social benefit from the provision of small homes for professionals in an established residential area in an accessible and sustainable location.
“Overall, it is considered that there are no identified adverse impacts arising from this development that would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.”
The plans, submitted to Havant Borough Council in December, described the building as “visually dated, with inconsistent shopfronts and limited architectural coherence”.
The proposals were subject to public consultation, and a total of 17 objections were submitted.
Issues raised by objectors included who would be housed in the property and concerns surrounding the “high concentration of people in a single building”.
One objector said that Waterlooville residents are “constantly battling against HMO applications”, while another said this would undermine the regeneration of the area.
However, the single letter of support said it is “hard for young professionals to get onto the property ladder” and praised the inclusion of flats in the plans.
The existing vehicle access would be kept, along with 15 parking spaces and storage for 32 bicycles for those living in the flats and HMO.
Of the 15 parking spaces, five of those would be available to those living in the HMO.
The planning committee at Havant Borough Council will make a decision on the plans on Thursday, April 9.