PROPOSALS to convert a former Stalybridge pub into a 10-bedroomed house in multiple occupation (HMO) are back on the table.
One scheme to change the Bulls Head, on Knowl Street, was withdrawn.
But Tariq Mushtaq, of Oldham-based First Choice Investments, has submitted an application with Tameside Council to do similar.
Three rooms would be on the ground floor, five on the first floor and two in what was used as a storage area of the pub, which has been closed for more than two years.
Each will have its own bathroom, while there would be a communal kitchen and eating area.
Minor external alterations would see the change of the existing double door on the rear extension to a window.
And documents supporting the scheme say it will ‘provide a high-quality living environment for occupiers.’
They also say losing the Bulls Head as a pub will not overly impact the area as there are others nearby.
They state: “The site has remained vacant for over two years and is unviable to continue in its current lawful use as a public house.
“It has been subject to anti-social behaviour and criminal activity since closing, as evidenced by the police investigation in May 2023 relating to the discovery of a cannabis farm at the premises.
“In total, there are over 15 public houses within a 10-minute walking radius of the site, reflecting its accessible town centre location and demonstrating that the needs of the local community will not be adversely impacted by the proposed change of use of the site to residential accommodation.
“Both national and local policy advocate the delivery of new residential floorspace in sustainable locations such as these given the overwhelmingly positive contribution that residents will make to the ongoing vitality and viability of the town centre.
“Accordingly, the proposed development will support local shops, services and infrastructure as well as making an important contribution to the council’s shortfall of housing supply on what is an existing site within the urban area.”
A lack of amenity space, which was highlighted in the appeal that saw the Stocks Inn permitted to be converted into an HMO, was also tackled.
For nearby facilities and the fact every room will be single occupancy will make up for it.
Documents add: “Given the town centre location and constraints of the site, there is no reasonable opportunity to provide private or communal amenity space on site for future occupiers.
“However, the site does benefit from close proximity to a wide range of public recreation facilities. In particular it is noted that Cheetham Park lies just 470 metres away, providing convenient access to landscaped gardens, a children’s playground and large recreational grassland.
“Additionally, Fern Bank Recreation Ground 590 metres to the west provides further recreational opportunities for occupiers with its landscaped park and gardens.
“Moreover, as a single occupancy development it is considered that future occupiers will have a typically lower demand for amenity space in this town centre location with the majority of amenities being provided within Stalybridge town centre itself.
“Ultimately, the proposed development will support local shops, services and infrastructure within the town centre as well as making an important contribution to the council’s severe shortfall of housing supply on what is an existing site within the urban site.”
Panning permission will be granted or refused by Tameside Council’s Speaker’s Panel (Planning)m committee.