Case study
Bristol City Council – Demolition of existing garage and attached shed, single storey side and rear extension, hip to gable loft conversion with dormer (already approved under 24/03050/CP), dropped kerb and vehicle crossover and change of use from dwelling house (Use Class C3) to an 8 bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) (Sui Generis Use).
Main Issues
Planning Voice prepared a planning objection in relation to a planning application for 3 Alberton Road, Bristol, which sought to convert a family home into an 8-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The proposal also included significant extensions, a dropped kerb, and additional parking provisions. Our objection focused on key concerns related to residential amenity, character and design, and parking pressures.
The proposed HMO would have significantly altered the character of a quiet, family-oriented residential area, introducing increased noise levels, transient occupants, and management challenges often associated with large HMOs. The large extensions and additional infrastructure, including bin storage and cycle parking, would have created a discordant impact on the surrounding streetscape.
Furthermore, the application failed to comply with Bristol City Council’s Local Plan policies, particularly DM2 and DM30, which safeguard residential amenity and ensure developments respect local character. The proposal also raised serious concerns regarding parking congestion, as the area already experienced high parking demand, and the introduction of eight additional residents would have exacerbated the issue.
Outcome
Following our detailed objection, the applicant withdrew the planning application, preventing the detrimental impact this development would have had on the local community. By successfully highlighting policy conflicts and potential harm to residential amenity, Planning Voice ensured that the integrity of the area was preserved, maintaining its suitability for family homes rather than high-density rental accommodation.
This case demonstrates the importance of objecting to a planning application when it threatens the character and functionality of a residential area. If you are concerned about a similar proposal in your community, submitting a well-reasoned planning objection can be crucial in influencing planning decisions.
