Controversial HMO application returns to Oldham Council planning committee

A controversial plan to convert a semi-detached house on Kevin Avenue in Royton into a six-person HMO is back before Oldham Council's planning committee this Wednesday, March 11. The application, which includes a first-floor extension, has sparked fierce opposition from neighbours who've collected 59 signatures on a petition and submitted 40 formal objections online.

The proposal has become particularly sensitive because the property owner is directly related to Cllr Abdul Jabbar, the council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability. This connection prompted the application to be brought before the planning committee rather than being decided by officers, with MP Jim McMahon even calling for national action on HMO proliferation in response.

At last month's meeting, councillors deferred their decision after 45 minutes of heated discussion about parking arrangements. The sticking point was how many permits would be available to potential residents. Planning officers have now clarified that the property would receive only two on-street visitor permits, plus whatever off-street parking exists on the driveway.

Local councillor Jade Hughes revealed that existing tenants at the property were completely unaware of the conversion plans until neighbours told them. Residents fear the six-person HMO will create parking chaos in an area already operating a residents' parking permit zone from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday, and worry about noise disrupting the community atmosphere they've built.

Despite the opposition, planning officers are recommending approval, arguing that the two visitor permits plus driveway parking should be sufficient. The decision will be made at Wednesday's meeting, with residents hoping their concerns about parking, noise, and the impact on local services will finally be heard.