“I don’t think anybody in this chamber really likes HMOs” – Ballymena HMO plans rejected

The location of a proposed HMO property on Galgorm Road, Ballymena

A proposed change of use from a dwelling to a house in multiple occupation (HMO) at 46 Galgorm Road, Ballymena, has been refused.

The application was turned down by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee at a meeting in The Braid, Ballymena, on Thursday, despite a recommendation to approve.

A planning officer told the meeting the proposal involved the change of use of a five-bedroom, three-storey terraced property to a five-bedroom HMO.

He indicated the surrounding area comprises terraced dwellings, apartments and HMOs “in close proximity”, adding that no internal or external alterations were proposed.

The officer reported that 28 objections had been received, raising concerns including car parking provision and intensification, increased demand for on-street parking, and the potential for anti-social behaviour and noise impact.

Planning consultant Hayley Wilson told the committee the proposed HMO would provide “vital accommodation” for nine employees of a locally based engineering firm.

Larne Lough DUP Alderman Paul Reid confirmed there were to be nine occupants and one parking space. Councillors were told there is a garage to the rear of the property.

Roads engineer Richard Agus said there is one parking space on site, accessed from the rear, and no parking permitted on Galgorm Road. He added that parking is available “on streets behind” the location and pointed out there would be “no change in demand for parking”.

“Parking for this application will be the same as for the current dwelling,” he stated. He went on to say occupants would be “bused to a workplace from this location and that parking will be on existing surrounding streets”.

Deputy Mayor, Bannside DUP Councillor Tyler Hoey, asked whether there had been an impact assessment in terms of waste. He was advised there were currently five bedrooms which could be occupied by up to 11 people and that the situation would be “comparable”.

In response to a query about bathroom facilities, Bannside DUP Alderman Tom Gordon was informed there would be no change.

Replying to a further query from Alderman Reid, an officer confirmed that the Department for Infrastructure Roads had said the parking provision would be “sub-standard”.

Alderman Gordon proposed accepting the recommendation to approve the application. Party colleague Ballymena Alderman Reuben Glover requested a recorded vote.

Larne Lough Alliance Alderman Robert Logan commented: “I don’t think anybody in this chamber really likes HMOs.”

Seconding the proposal, he added: “There is no material planning consideration to turn it down.”

The proposal to approve fell, with Aldermen Logan and Gordon voting in favour and nine councillors voting against.

Alderman Glover then proposed refusing the application, seconded by Councillor Hoey. This proposal was carried by ten votes in favour, with Alderman Gordon voting against.