Seven-bed HMO proposed at Drayton shop after refusal
Plans have been resubmitted to turn part of a shop on Havant Road into a large house in multiple occupation (HMO) after councillors previously refused a similar scheme.
Developers Applecore PDM have applied for planning permission to redevelop 246 Havant Road, Drayton, proposing a seven-bedroom HMO above and behind a ground-floor shop.
The site is currently used as a cycle shop and forms part of the Drayton shopping precinct. According to the planning statement, the revised proposal follows Portsmouth CIty Council’s decision to refuse a similar scheme in October this year.
Councillors refused an earlier application for an eight-bed HMO due to the loss of a commercial unit, increased parking demand, inadequate standard of accommodation.
Developers say the new plans have been altered to address the council’s concerns, adding: “The revised plan seeks to overcome the key matters that lead to the refusal.”
Changes include removing a ground-floor bedroom, increasing the size of the shop and reducing the number of occupiers while providing larger communal space.
The new proposal would retain a shopfront at street level, with a separate entrance for residents. A mansard roof extension would be added to create additional living space, along with solar panels.
Internally, the building would include seven ensuite bedrooms across the first and second floors, with a shared kitchen and dining area to the rear. All bedrooms exceed minimum space standards, with the largest measuring nearly 30 square metres.
Applecore argue the site is sustainable, pointing to nearby shops and transport links. The report says the location is “less than a mile from Cosham High Street” and within walking distance of Cosham railway station and regular bus services.
The developer concludes that the scheme would provide affordable housing while supporting local businesses, stating: “The proposal will bring an underused upper floor into regular use, contributing to the local housing stock and also providing additional footfall and custom for the local shopping district.”
The application has seen one objection from a local resident, who argued that Drayton “does not need anymore HMOs” and criticised the lack of parking and impact on wastewater infrastructure.
Residents can view and comment using the planning reference 25/01389/FUL.