An application to add a floor to an HMO to take it from eight beds to 12 beds was approved by Bolton Council.

The applicant, Ghulam Khan, applied for planning permission for the site on Dunstan Street, Tonge Fold, this year.

At the moment the HMO has four bedrooms on the ground floor, as well as a kitchen area and a living area, and four bedrooms on the first floor as well as two bathrooms.

The application is to add a floor for another four bedrooms and to add an extension to the ground floor and first floor to allow all 12 bedrooms to have ensuite bathrooms.

ALSO READ: John Holt Community Centre at risk unless it raises £10,000.

The application said: "The proposals have been designed to enhance the amenity for the existing bedrooms. All bedrooms are to have en-suite facilities and all bedrooms are to have a minimum of the 10.22 square metre single-occupancy standard."

The application said: "The second floor extension has been designed with careful consideration to the surrounding context. As an end of terrace property the increase in height enhances the quality of the street scene."

(Image: South North Group)

The site on Dunstan Street, an end of terrace which was Tonge Fold UCAN Centre for a number of years, is to be taller than the rest of the terrace as a result of the work.

There was no opposition from residents or their representatives at the town hall over the course of a consultation and the work was approved by Bolton Council last week.

ALSO READ: Vandals torch toy vehicle at John Holt Community Centre.

A report said: "The proposal complies with local policies and national policies and is recommended for approval."

In Bolton, a conversion into an HMO is in need of planning permission from the council if it involves more than six tenants or if it involves other changes such as extensions. Separately, a conversion into an HMO is in need of a licence from the council if it involves more than four tenants.

For information go to bolton.gov.uk/private-rented-owner-occupied-housing/houses-multiple-occupation-hmos/.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.