Stevenage landlord seeks to double capacity of HMO

A planning application has been submitted to Stevenage Borough Council for the house in Buckthorn Avenue to have a rear extension and double-storey side extension.

A HMO is a shared house occupied by individuals who share basic amenities but do not form a single household.

Currently, the HMO in Buckthorn Avenue has room for four tenants. If the extension plans are approved, up to eight people will be accommodated in the property, with eight en-suite bedrooms.

The rear elevation of the property. (Image: WindsorPatania)

The plans include demolishing two garages and creating three parking spaces at the front of the property.

A Design and Access Statement accompanying the planning application says: "Due to the demographics of HMO tenants - young people who do not tend to own cars and mostly use public transport, cycle or walk - and the location of the property  - within a short walking distance to public transport - we propose to follow green mobility trends.

"There is a secure bike shed in the rear yard, easily accessible from the main road - one bike space per occupant."

The plans include demolishing two garages and creating three parking spaces at the front of the property. (Image: WindsorPatania)

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The statement also says that  "the proposed scheme is respectful of the neighbourhood", and that "the extensions are designed to blend with the main building, improving the appearance of Buckthorn Avenue from the street".