A house of multiple occupation (HMO) at 37 North Street, near Bridgwater town centre, has received planning permission to expand. Operated by Edward James under an agreement with Hinkley Homes, the current 6-bedroom HMO is set to gain two additional bedrooms through significant internal renovations.
The terraced property, located close to the Star Fish Bar and the main High Street, has been a focus of local debate. Concerns were raised by councillors over potential over-development and the shortage of parking in the area. Notably, Mr James also owns a nearby 8-bed HMO, intensifying worries around density.
The planned expansion involves subdividing the existing ground-floor kitchen and living room to create two new bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. Kieran Golding of Hinkley Homes assured the Somerset Council planning committee that all eight bedrooms will meet or exceed local space and HMO licensing standards, accommodating double beds, wardrobes, desks, and drawers. Communal spaces including the kitchen, dining area, and lounge will remain functional and communal.
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The rise in HMOs in Bridgwater has been linked to workforce demands from major local developments such as Hinkley Point C nuclear power station and the new gigafactory near Puriton and Woolavington. While Somerset Council continues to oppose a similar expansion at 41 Taunton Road and has recently rejected plans for another HMO on Rhode Lane, permission was granted for the North Street property after a close vote.
Councillor Alan Bradford praised the quality of the proposed development, stating it exceeded typical standards. However, Councillors Brian Smedley and Hilary Bruce voiced concerns about the cumulative impact of HMOs in the area, highlighting issues like over-development, fly-parking, and insufficient parking spaces, which already make commuting difficult for residents.
Following approximately 30 minutes of discussion, the committee approved the expansion by six votes to four, allowing Hinkley Homes to proceed with their planned modifications.