A six-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO) at 37 North Street, close to Bridgwater town centre, has been given the green light for expansion by Somerset Council. The application, submitted by Edward James in partnership with Hinkley Homes, seeks to add two additional bedrooms through significant internal alterations.
Located within walking distance of the Star Fish Bar and the bustling High Street, the terraced property sits on one of Bridgwater’s busiest roads. It is situated opposite another eight-bedroom HMO owned by Mr. James. The planned expansion involves subdividing the existing kitchen and living areas on the ground floor to create the two new bedrooms, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms.
Speaking at the council’s planning committee meeting on June 9, Kieran Golding, representing Hinkley Homes, highlighted the benefits of the proposal: “All eight bedrooms will exceed local authority space standards and HMO licensing requirements. Each room will easily accommodate a double bed, wardrobe, drawers, and a desk. We operate a strict one tenant per room policy without exception. Communal facilities, such as a thoughtfully designed kitchen, dining area, and lounge, will remain fit for purpose. Our tenants are treated as house-mates, not just occupiers.”
READ MORE: Somerset Schools to Close Over 100 Sites Due to Extreme Heat
READ MORE: Pride Flags Vandalised in Weston-super-Mare, Disrupting Armed Forces Day Plans
The rise in HMOs in Bridgwater has been fuelled by large infrastructure projects, including the construction of Hinkley Point C and a nearby gigafactory between Puriton and Woolavington. However, concerns have been raised regarding potential over-development and the lack of adequate parking facilities in the area.
Councillor Alan Bradford of North Petherton supported the application, remarking positively on the proposed improvements, while Councillors Brian Smedley and Hilary Bruce expressed reservations. They pointed to increased overcrowding and parking spillover affecting surrounding streets like Wembdon Road. Councillor Bruce highlighted ongoing challenges for residents, saying, “There is no parking available already in that area. Residents are struggling to commute in the mornings.”
Despite these concerns, after approximately half an hour of discussion, the planning committee approved the expansion by a narrow margin of six votes to four.