Express & Star

HMO plan divides residents in Dudley street

A proposed five-bedroom home to house multiple residents near Dudley town centre has divided opinion in the community, with people voicing strong objections as well as support for the plan.

Published
Last updated
The Parade in Dudley, where a HMO is proposed. Photo: Google

Members of Dudley Council’s development control committee are being recommended to grant approval to an extension to a semi-detached home on The Parade to help convert it into a five-bedroom HMO (house of multiple occupation).

The application, put forward by a developer named as M Atwal, attracted opposition from West Midlands Police and neighbours due to fears of increased crime, parking issues, noise and loss of privacy.

But other neighbours leapt to the defence of the proposal, saying it was unfair to assume people moving in would be criminals, as well as welcoming the investment.

Mr Atwal said that since the plans were put forward, people had been taking pictures of the property and his family – resulting in him filing a complaint to the police.

He added he had no intention of harming the area with his development, which had been designed by a reputable architect, with off-road parking provided.

Mr Atwal said: “I have had numerous neighbours visiting the property and taking photographs of my home from the back of my garden (into my house) and also taking photos of the front of my house and photos of all the random cars parked outside and on the road.

“This has been quite disturbing to watch, as I have a young family and feared for their and my safety and welfare.

Crisis

“I feel threatened by this intrusive behaviour into my privacy and personal space and as a result reported these incidents to the local police.”

A resident speaking in support said: “The reality is that there is a housing crisis and lack of accommodation for single people ‐ they can’t simply go to the council and get a set of keys like 30 years ago.

“It is very stereotypical to assume that all individuals are criminals and I am deeply shocked and concerned about some stereotypical and hate comments stated by some of the objectors.

“It’s no wonder many people result in having to sleep on the streets!”

West Midlands Police objected saying it was already a high crime area and the HMO would result in more demand on their resources.

One objector said: “There is a potential to house up to 10 individuals, from the plan it’s very apparent that the intent is to maximise profit from the landlord as no recreational space has even been considered.

“Research clearly indicates where there is low income there is greater risk of criminal activity. I firmly believe that this HMO has the potential of drawing attention to the police.

“This is backed up by recent surveys within Dudley for the crime statistics surrounding HMOs. The police have already identified this as a problem.”

Planning officers said there was no demonstrable harm from the proposal and have recommended committee approval when it meets on June 2.