Two separate HMOs to be created along Derby Street, Bolton

The plans will see a six-bedroom house on Derby Street in Daubhill turned into two four-bedroom houses in multiple occupation right next to each other.

This is found amongst a row of shops, takeaways and offices on one of the main roads into Bolton town centre from the south west.

A Bolton Council report said: “The proposals will create a two four-bedroom HMOs with separate communal kitchen/dining rooms and bathrooms.”

It added: “It is noted that a secondary communal space could be created at basement level for both properties, however these would be secondary only due to a lack of outlook and potentially light.

The plans have now been approved (Image: FP Architecture and Planning)

“The proposed bedroom sizes and room meet those recommended within the HMO guidance for six persons, maximum.

“Each room is afforded a good standard of outlook and light from windows to either the front or rear elevations.

“Externally the proposals provide a joint communal rear yard area measuring 80 square metres, with parking and bin-storage.

“The site is sustainably located with access to services, public transport and public open spaces.”

Derby Street is one of the main routes into Bolton town centre (Image: Google Maps)

The conversion of family homes into houses in multiple occupation across Bolton has often proven to be controversial in recent months and years.

Concerns have often been raised about space for people living in houses like these as well as the extra strain that they are likely to put on nearby services.

Parking spaces and the likelihood of extra cars on nearby roads has also often been raised when shared house conversion have been raised.

But in the case of the Derby Street plans no objections were received from people living in the area or their elected representatives in the Rumworth ward.

But Bolton Council officers had suggested that some changes be made from the original plans.

The report said: “Following officer comments/concerns the proposals were amended to be remove the basement bedroom and previously proposed ‘bedsit.’

“Given the reduction and nature of the amendment it has not been considered necessary to undertake further consultation.”

Bolton Council announced on Wednesday August 7 that the plans had been approved subject to these conditions.