Two closed pubs set to be converted into shared homes for 20 tenants

Two former pubs could become shared houses for up to 20 people. In separate planning applications submitted in December, the Railway Hotel and The Morning Star pubs, both in Radcliffe, are the subject of proposals to convert them into 10-person houses of multiple occupation (HMOs).

The Railway on Ainsworth Road, ceased trading a number years ago and ‘requires considerable investment’. A design and access statement in support of the application said that due to the economic downturn, Covid challenges and competition, it lost significant trade and’ can no longer sustain business or justify further investment as a pub’.

The statement, on behalf of applicant Ajmal Dar, said: “All bedrooms would consist of separate washing facilities, whilst there would also be a communal toilet facility. ” In addition, a separate shared kitchen and separate dining room would be provided on the lower ground floor, a shared lounge would be provided on the ground floor.

“Five bedrooms would be provided on the ground floor and a further five on the first floor. “The proposed HMO would be used by individuals who need short term accommodation and are likely to be rented to individuals visiting the area or who have business nearby.”

An application to convert the former Morning Star pub on Thomas Street into a 10-bed HMO was submitted in the the same week by SHLT Holdings Ltd. The pub has been vacant in June 2022.

A statement in support of the plans, said: ” It is unviable for the site to continue in its current lawful use as a public house. “The site is positioned between two public car parks to the immediate north and south, while a further public car park and small landscaped parkland area are positioned on the opposite side of Thomas Street to