Residents living near Ulster University’s Magee campus in Derry have voiced strong concerns regarding the rapid increase in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in their neighbourhood. With enrollment figures projected to rise to 10,000 students by 2032, local advocacy group Concerned Residents Around Magee (CRAM) is urging the Derry City and Strabane District Council to implement stricter regulations on HMOs to prevent further imbalance in the area. The concentration of these properties has sparked fears of transforming the community dynamics, similar to the notorious ‘Derry Holylands’, which is known for its density of student accommodation and the accompanying disturbances. Residents report adverse effects such as increased noise and traffic, compromising the quality of life in their neighbourhoods. In response, council officials have indicated that comprehensive planning policies are in the pipeline, aimed at balancing the needs of the growing student population with the interests of longstanding residents. Currently, Derry has approximately 212 licensed HMO properties, reflecting a significant trend that raises critical questions about the future of community living near educational institutions.
Key Takeaways
- Residents are calling for limits on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) near Ulster University’s Magee campus to protect community integrity.
- Concerned Residents Around Magee (CRAM) fear the area could mirror the problematic ‘Derry Holylands’ student rental environment.
- Local council is working on new planning policies to balance student housing needs with the interests of existing residents.
The Impact of Student Housing on Local Communities
Concerns regarding the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) around Ulster University’s Magee campus are escalating as local residents advocate for stricter controls. This initiative is spearheaded by a community group, Concerned Residents Around Magee (CRAM), in light of a report forecasting that student enrollment at the Magee campus could rise significantly, potentially reaching 10,000 by
2032. Residents argue that the concentration of HMOs, which are primarily located near the campus, has led to an imbalance in the demographic make-up compared to other parts of Derry. Kathleen Feeney, a local resident, articulated her distress over the transformation of neighborhood dynamics, citing increased noise levels and traffic congestion as major issues (Derry City and Strabane District Council, 2024). The fears expressed by residents echo the previous challenges faced in areas such as the ‘Derry Holylands’, where the high density of student accommodation has caused substantial community disruption. In response to these concerns, the local council is in the process of developing new planning policies designed to regulate HMO proposals, ensuring they align with the community’s needs and interests. Currently, Derry houses 212 licensed HMO properties, a figure suggesting ongoing growth in student accommodation within the region, which may necessitate further oversight if local sentiments are to be adequately addressed.
Council Response to Resident Concerns
In an effort to address the growing concerns from community members, the Derry City and Strabane District Council is actively seeking input from local residents through a series of public consultations. These meetings aim to gather insights on the implications of the rising number of HMOs and the demographic changes surrounding the Magee campus. Council representatives have emphasized the importance of community engagement, indicating that feedback gathered will directly influence the crafting of future regulations regarding HMOs in the area. Furthermore, they plan to assess the potential impacts on local amenities, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for long-term residents (Derry City and Strabane District Council, 2024). This proactive approach reflects a broader commitment to ensuring sustainable development within Derry, while also balancing the needs of students and the established community.
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