Approval Granted for Large HMO on Beverley Road, Hull

Hull City Council approved a plan. The plan changes an office building on Beverley Road into a house in multiple occupation. It now has 32 bedrooms. This decision follows a similar request that was withdrawn last March. Local councillors and Humberside Police had opposed that earlier request.

Background of the Application

At 337-341 Beverley Road the building housed Alan Wood & Partners. The firm stayed there for over 40 years. The company now seeks a larger place. The conversion lets the property stay useful and cared for. Jason Kay, the property manager for the developers, said the project meets council rules and stops the building from decaying. He noted that many jobs could be lost if the plan did not pass. Alan Wood would have to leave Hull, and that would hurt the local economy.

Community Concerns

Many local people and authorities spoke out against the plan. A senior councillor said the community did not support it. Humberside Police worried that more HMOs could worsen problems for residents. They said new HMOs might add stress for people in the area. Councillor Paul Drake-Davis, who handles regeneration and housing, warned that too many HMOs can harm local bonds. Councillor David McCobb made a similar point. He said the large number of HMOs can hurt everyday life in the area.

Development Features

Officials explained that the new HMO will have modern features. The building will include a gym and a cinema room to improve life there. Every bedroom will have its own en-suite bathroom. This setup meets the demand for good rental homes in the city. The plan passed by a slim margin of five votes to four. One councillor did not vote. After the meeting, Jason Kay said, “I’m over the moon with the decision.”

Implications for the Property Market

This approval shows a trend in today’s housing market. Cities like Hull face a shortage of homes. Investors in HMOs can find a good way to house more people in urban areas. Yet, they must note that local views on HMOs run deep. The debate now focuses on how to build new homes without harming community life. With more young workers and students in the city, the need for such housing grows fast. Still, careful building methods must keep local standards strong.

Conclusion

The approval of the HMO on Beverley Road marks an important point. Developers and local authorities now work to balance progress with the community’s well-being. The decision brings needed housing and stops the building from falling apart. All parties must stay alert to how this change affects local life. Investors in HMOs should consider these points and work on projects that help the area.

Sources

• BBC News
• Local Democracy Reporting Service
• Humberside Police