PLANS for a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Earlestown has been decided on.

As reported by the Star, plans for a five-bedroom HMO in Legh Street, Earlestown, were drawn up in August.

The plans sought to convert a residential property on 116 Legh Street into a five-bedroom HMO with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities.

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In St Helens borough, planning permission is only required for the conversion of commercial properties or residential properties into HMOs if it will house 7 or more people.

Although planning permission is not necessary for HMOs that house six or fewer people, Certificate of Lawfulness are often applied for to ensure that the conversion is lawful and the local authority is aware of the development.

Despite one formal letter of objection being submitted about the Legh Street plans, planners consented to the plans and declared that the proposed development lawful.

Although concerns are often raised about HMOs with more people living in a confined space, they can make an important contribution to housing needs and chelp tenants find an affordable property, who would otherwise be on a waiting list with the council or housing association.