Plans for HMO on Fleet Lane, Parr approved

The plans, submitted to St Helens Council by Joy construction last summer, were for changes of use at 466 Fleet Lane, Parr.  

Proposals were passed although plans for six apartments on a nearby property at 460 Fleet Lane have been shelved with separate plans for a takeaway and milkshake bar having since been drawn up. 

A design and access statement, drawn up on behalf of the applicant by NMW Design in the initial plans, validated last July, said: "Joy Construction have found a massive need in this area for professional, quality and affordable shared accommodation" and says the site is "two miles away from the very popular and extremely busy warehouse area next to Burtonwood".

READ MORE > Plans for a takeaway and milkshake bar submitted 

It added: "This property serves perfectly to that community especially to the 23-40 age category and being only a 10 min cycle or five-minute bus ride to commute to their work place each day makes it a great location.

"A high percentage of the factory workers work for a minimum wage and this property will provide a much more affordable place to live with all of the occupiers bills wrapped in to their package but still giving them the clean, quality space that they need".

The proposals include a "modest first floor rear extension" nd will provide 10 two-person bedrooms, with five on each floor.

Plans for 466 Fleet Lane have been approved (Image: St Helens Council Planning Portal)

In a report, planning officer Alex Ball said: "It is considered that the proposed HMO would have similar comings and goings than the previous use as a Bed and Breakfast (Class C1).

"It is not considered that the change of use would attract excessive noise levels. Hours of construction activity will be restricted by a condition due to the proximity to existing residential properties."

Initially plans had also included for a conversion and extension of a former commercial premises at 460 Fleet Lane into six two-bedroom apartments.

In the report, the case officer noted: "During the course of the application process the applicant has significantly amended the proposed development by removing the nearby building (460 Fleet Lane), which consisted of the change of use to six residential apartments, to overcome concerns raised by the council in terms of the site being overdeveloped and impacts upon neighbouring and future occupants of the units."

In November, new plans for 460 Fleet Lane were sent in seeking permission for a takeaway and milkshake bar, which are still awaiting a decision on approval.