Park-side home gets approval to be converted into eight-bed house despite objections

A mid-terrace home close to a park is to be converted into an eight-bed house of multiple occupation (HMO) despite local objections.

Sona Co-living Ltd have gained planning permission for the currently unoccupied house, on the eastern side of Walmersley Road, Bury to have its basement modified to provide extra bedrooms.

The house, which is close to Clarence Park, has two main storeys, with rooms in the roof above, and basement level rooms, making a total of four floors of accommodation.

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At a planning committee meeting of Bury Council, a spokesperson for the applicants, said: “There’s a huge need fro homes for people between 18 and 35. This age group is less likely to buy properties.

“They are looking for affordable options which is where shared housing comes in. Our properties are different to the vast majority of HMOs, sadly which are of poor quality and mismanaged by rogue landlords.

“We call our properties co-living. Our number one goal is to ensure our tenants have and amazing living experience with high quality designed space.

“Building community is one of our core values.”

The committee was told that neighbours would be given details of the management company for the property and issues could be reported to them at any time,

Four objections were received from neighbours to the plans.

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A report summarised the complaints, stating: “The area is becoming more deprived and is attracting landlords who prioritise profit overt community. The property should remain a family home.

“The