The plans, submitted to Blaenau Gwent council planners, are to convert Elmwood House in the Georgetown area of the town into a “sui generic house” class so that it can become a 14-bedroom HMO.
Plans have been submitted to turn a building in Tredegar into a 14-bedroom HMO. The plans, submitted to Blaenau Gwent council planners, are to convert Elmwood House in the Georgetown area of the town into a “sui generic house” class so that it can become a 14-bedroom HMO.
Some in the area have expressed worries over the plans, while others have backed the plans and said the most important thing is that people in need of a home are accommodated properly.
The proposal has been submitted by Pascal Stumpers of Cobra Real Estate Limited. Planning agent Charlotte Hall, of Harvey Bowes, explained the proposal, saying: “Elmwood House is a substantial building located within a residential area of Georgetown, Tredegar. The site is sustainably located with access to local services and transport.”
She said the council has no article four directions or policies specific for HMO concentrations and the proposal should be assessed against general planning principles including amenity, design, and highways.
Ms Hall said: “The proposal retains a residential use and makes efficient use of an existing building. The scheme provides generous bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, and high-quality communal areas.
“The site promotes sustainable travel with cycle storage and car ownership is expected to be low. The proposal represents a sustainable form of development and should be supported.”
A management plan for the HMO has also been lodged with the proposal. Ms Hall said: “The property will be professionally managed with a named responsible person available 24/7. All tenants will be referenced and tenancy agreements will include strict behavioural clauses.”
These “house rules” include no anti-social behaviour, no excessive noise after 10pm, respect for neighbours, and proper waste disposal.
Ms Hall continued: “Neighbours will have access to a contact number and complaints will be logged and resolved within 48 hours. The property will comply with fire safety regulations and licensing requirements. The management approach ensures minimal impact on the surrounding area.”
The application has gained much interest on social media, with some residents concerned over the type of people that could end up living at Elmwood House.
One neighbour said: “The question now facing residents is whether a 14-room HMO at this location is genuinely needed or whether it represents yet another example of communities being reshaped to suit speculative property interests.” Others have pointed out that the site is close to schools.
Some comments also pointed out that people don’t notice other HMOs in the area and that there is a need to “help and house” homeless people.
A decision is expected by a deadline of July 9.
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