Former health centre could be turned into HMO with 22 rooms
A former health centre in Shaw, Oldham, may be converted into a 22-bed HMO if approved by Oldham Council. Developers Safina Ghaus and Mehtab Shaukat aim to create a high-standard housing complex with communal facilities, security measures, and support services. The proposal has faced objections from locals concerned about the overabundance of HMOs in the area.
Former Shaw Health Centre Could Become 22-Bed HMO
A vacant health centre in Shaw could be transformed into a 22-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) under plans submitted to Oldham Council.
Developers Safina Ghaus and Mehtab Shaukat have applied to convert the empty Crompton Health Centre on High Street into what they describe as an “exceptional” and “safe” housing complex.
GPs from Oak Gables Partnership and Village Medical Practice vacated the single-storey building last year when they relocated to the newly-built Shaw and Crompton Medical Centre on Westway. The old structure was deemed “unfit for purpose” for clinical use.
The 8,373 sq ft building, which includes a car park, could now find new life as housing. The ‘Change of Use’ application proposes creating 22 self-contained units, each with bed space, toilet, shower and small kitchen.
Plans also include a larger communal kitchen, office and meeting room, laundry facilities, separate toilet and bathroom unit, and a communal lounge area.
In their application, the developers stated: “With extensive experience in managing similar housing schemes, we will ensure this development is maintained at the highest standards, providing a safe, secure and welcoming environment for all residents.”
They pledged that “security will be a top priority” with 24/7 CCTV inside and outside, controlled access and a full-time concierge.
Ghaus and Shaukat said the HMO would make a “positive contribution” to the local community, adding: “By working closely with local authorities, support services and community organisations, I will ensure that the needs of all residents are met, helping them to sustain their tenancies and thrive in this high-quality housing environment.”
Ms Shaukat, a manager at Carepoint HC in Nelson, previously secured planning permission to convert Shaw’s former Weaver’s Answer pub into emergency accommodation for homeless people.
The application has already drawn objections from neighbours. One wrote: “A 20 bedroom [HMO] is too much. The town is already in decline - we need more shops, restaurants, youth centres and things that will benefit the community.”
Source: Read original article