In Scarborough, a proposal to convert a former bed and breakfast into a 13-bedroom share house has sparked significant controversy among residents. Despite more than 30 objections raised during a recent planning meeting, the local council has approved the conversion of the three-storey building located at 7 Blands Cliff, igniting fears within the community regarding the potential implications of this change. Observers express concerns about the rise of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Scarborough, growing from a persistent worry over possible antisocial behaviour to criticisms of the overarching impact on local amenity spaces and waste management systems. Although planning officials initially hesitated in granting permission for the project, adjustments to the proposal—most notably the reduction of intended rooms from 14 to 13 alongside the introduction of a management plan—ultimately resulted in a green light for the conversion. Local residents continue to advocate for assurances that the shift will not contribute to the area’s reputation as ‘the HMO capital of North Yorkshire.’
Key Takeaways
- The conversion of a former B&B into a 13-bedroom share house in Scarborough has sparked significant community opposition.
- Residents fear that the increase in HMOs could lead to antisocial behavior and degrade local living conditions.
- The planning authority approved the project after the applicant addressed concerns by reducing bedroom numbers and presenting a management plan.
Community Objections and Concerns
In Scarborough, Yorkshire, plans to convert a former bed and breakfast into a 13-bedroom shared house have been approved, despite strong objections from the community. Over 30 residents expressed concerns regarding potential antisocial behaviour, impacts on residential amenity, and challenges surrounding waste management at the meeting held to discuss the proposal for the property located at 7 Blands Cliff. Although the planning authority initially exhibited hesitance due to these concerns, the applicant was able to gain approval by reducing the total number of bedrooms from 14 to 13 and presenting a comprehensive management plan aimed at addressing local fears. One local resident expressed frustration at the prevalence of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in the area, labelling Scarborough as ‘the HMO capital of North Yorkshire’ and urging for a more balanced approach to housing in the community. The approval is seen by some as a risk to the social fabric of the neighbourhood, indicating a tug-of-war between development and community integrity.
Planning Authority’s Decision and Conditions
In response to the approval, the Scarborough Borough Council has emphasized the importance of community engagement in future housing projects. The authority stated that the management plan submitted by the developer would include measures for community liaison and regular meetings with residents to ensure concerns are addressed promptly. Additionally, the planning committee underlined their commitment to monitoring the impact of this conversion on local resources, particularly waste management and parking, which have historically been contentious issues in densely populated areas. The decision reflects a growing trend within the council to balance housing demands with the preservation of community integrity, as indicated by ongoing discussions about regulating the proliferation of HMOs in Scarborough. Furthermore, local authorities are now considering implementing stricter guidelines for future developments, aiming to mitigate the perceived negative effects on existing neighborhoods (Bradley, 2024). This case acts as a litmus test for how similar applications may be treated in the future, particularly in tourist-centric locations like Scarborough.
