PLANS seeking permission to turn an empty corner shop building into a house of multiple occupation (HMO) have been granted approval.

A planning application for a change of use of the former North Road Mart premises into a nine-bedroom HMO and external alterations has been drawn up.

Proposals have been sent in by applicant Mr Wong to St Helens Council.

Planning permission for apartments at the building has previously been granted, however, the new application for a HMO was drawn up.

A design and access statement, by agents CHP Consultants Ltd, in the application states: "The current owners have applied for planning permission to convert to 2 x 3 bedroom apartments which was approved".

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It was added: "They have explored the potential to increase the size of the building by adding another story and converting the building into 8 apartments.

"Feedback was received by the council positively though a full application was not submitted".

The statement describes the building's "exterior shows signs of degrading and is in poor condition as it has been left for some time without remedial work".

It added: "Our approach is to convert the property into 9 room HMO consisting of 9 double rooms all with en-suite facilities.

"This will support up to 9 tenants."

It says: "There is scope to provide a well-planned and fully refurbished HMO accommodation that makes the best use of the property."

In a report, recommending approval, case officer Alex Ball stated: "During the application process the applicant has amended the proposed development by providing additional external amenity for future occupiers, with parking provision.

"The applicant will be restoring the fabric of the building to retain and enhance the original features to the building, with the removal of the metal corrugated sheets with slate tiles to the existing single storey section of the building".

It was added the proposal "involves the removal of the associated solid roller shutter which would be a betterment to the street scene".

The report added: "The conversion of the vacant building would make a positive contribution to the housing supply, providing a good quality living accommodation within a sustainable location. 

"The council's HMO officer has responded to the application and considers that there is sufficient recreation and domestic space at the building to accommodate the number of bedsits, subject to single occupancy.

The planning officer added: "It is considered that the proposed HMO would have less comings and goings than the previous use as a commercial premises (Class E).

"It is not considered that the change of use would attract excessive noise levels".

Approval for the plans was granted.