Locals object to Halesworth family home HMO conversion bid

Qube Design Group, on behalf of Sydney Aldridge, is seeking permission from East Suffolk Council to convert a home on Bedingfield Crescent, in Halesworth, into shared accommodation for up to four unrelated occupants.

Since the application was lodged, a number of locals have spoken out against the scheme.

Parking is among the most common concerns raised by objectors, who say the street is already congested and serves as a bus route.

One local warned that "four more vehicles" could be added to an already busy road, potentially creating difficulties for buses and emergency vehicles.

Several neighbours questioned how shift workers could affect nearby households, citing worries about vehicle movements, doors slamming, and people arriving and leaving at unsociable hours.

As part of the proposals, an internal wall would be constructed in the living room to create a fourth bedroom (Image: Qube)

A number of objectors argue the proposal would be out of keeping with what they describe as a predominantly family-oriented estate.

One objector said: "Will the landlord vet the tenants and their suitability to live alongside the current family-oriented residents?"

Others questioned who future tenants would be and whether there would be a high turnover of occupants.

One local said: "Who will be the tenants moving into this HMO? Will they always be skilled professional workers or will this begin to change over time?"

However, not everyone is opposed to the plans.

One neighbour has backed the proposal, arguing it would help meet demand for accommodation linked to major projects such as Sizewell C while bringing additional spending into the local economy.

Documents submitted as part of the application say the scheme would "provide additional housing choice within Halesworth" and help meet the demand for flexible accommodation in the wider East Suffolk area.

Plans also state the property could be suitable for people working locally, including those linked to major projects such as Sizewell C, although "there is currently no agreement with Sizewell C or any contractor and the proposal is not dependent on a confirmed arrangement with that project".