Oldham HMO approved despite community anger

A controversial plan to create a six-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO) on Kevin Avenue in Royton has been approved by Oldham Council, despite fierce opposition from neighbours who fear the area is being overrun by shared accommodation.

More than 40 residents objected to the proposal from Footlong (UK) Ltd, which would extend an existing house to create space for six individual tenants. Resident Angela Collier told councillors she had counted 16 three and four-bedroom HMOs in the local area, warning that 'family houses are being eradicated'.

Councillor Jade Hughes raised concerns about the impact on community stability, suggesting the new HMO could displace vulnerable families already living in the area. 'Displacing them would not only disrupt their stability but would also overall diminish the overall integrity of the community,' she said.

Parking emerged as a major sticking point, with residents claiming emergency vehicles struggle to navigate the already crowded street. However, planners confirmed the HMO household would be entitled to no parking permits due to an off-road space, with just two visitors' passes available.

The application passed by a single vote after councillors initially considered deferring it again to gather more information about HMO concentrations in the area. They ultimately approved it, fearing a second deferral could lead to costly non-determination appeals from the developer.