Five HMO conversion applications across Portsmouth have been recommended for approval by council officers despite attracting more than 140 public objections and being called in by local councillors amid growing community concerns about neighbourhood character.
The most contentious proposal involves converting a property in Burbidge Grove, which has generated 105 objections and prompted Councillor Peter Candlish to call it in for review. Local residents have expressed concerns about front garden removal, lack of community benefits, and the increasing prevalence of HMOs replacing family properties.
One resident’s objection stated: “The objections raised are all genuine and serious and represent the views of many of the residents not only of Burbidge Grove but the surrounding area. It is beyond my comprehension that this matter has got this far.
“This is a very flawed process if you are ignoring the views of the majority over the avarice of a property developer. These are real lives that will be affected, not faceless and cowardly property developers.
“You and the committee should be embarrassed to be allowing this to continue on for so long affecting the mental well being of all the residents that this will affect.”
Council officers have nevertheless recommended conditional approval despite the community opposition.
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A second application at 92 Kingston Road in Fratton seeks to convert a house into a nine-bedroom HMO. This proposal has drawn 17 objections and was called in by Councillor Russell Simpson. Residents cite parking difficulties, potential antisocial behaviour, and HMO oversaturation as primary concerns. Officers have also recommended conditional approval for this application.
In Baffins, 180 Stride Avenue’s owner seeks permission to create a six-bedroom HMO. Despite six objections and Councillor Darren Sanders calling it in, council officers support approval.
Meanwhile, at 275 Laburnum Grove in Copnor, the owner is pursuing a certificate of lawful development to add a seventh bedroom to an existing HMO. Councillors Swann and Vernon-Jackson have called in this application, which has received over six objections, yet officers recommend granting permission.
The final application involves converting 129 New Road in Fratton into a seven-bedroom HMO, which has attracted 11 objections but is also recommended for approval.
