An "underutilised" pub will be transformed into a 17-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) despite objections from neighbours.
The former pub, known as The Bay or The Bay Horse which sits on Wrigley Head in Failsworth, is a two-storey end terrace comprised of a beer garden and a large single-storey rear extension.
Plans were submitted in March this year by Gamble King and Noone Ltd, on behalf of Maxem Properties Ltd, to convert the building into residential use.
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While the proposals stated changes to the building would be minimal and would not have a large impact on the current appearance of the building, it would contain 17 bedrooms to accommodate one person per each room.
The applicant said 10 of the rooms would be based on the ground floor while the further seven would sit on the first floor.
The rooms range in size with some containing a single bed and up to seven having a double.
All 17 residents will have a shared kitchen and dining area, a living room and two utility rooms.
The plans also stipulate personal washing facilities and toilets will be shared and provided on both floors, with each room comprised of two showers, two toilets and two sinks.
The design and access statement stipulated that occupiers would not need their own cars due to the accessibility of public transport, including bus stops and Metrolink services, and that there would be a cycle stand to accommodate 10 bicycles.
A total of 13 objections were made against the plans.
A resident said there are "far too many HMO residencies in Failsworth", referring to similar homes on Pole Lane and Ashton Road West, and claimed only the houses on the side of John Street were notified of the planning application.
"What about access to GP services and dentists? We struggle to get appointments as it is.
"Those who will be living there are not to have their own cars, but how can you ensure this? It's impossible to park on your own street as it is", they added.
Another neighbour said their home backs onto the HMO site and that they "already had noise issues with the pub late at night and I can foresee an even bigger noise issue with 17 single occupants".
The neighbour expressed concern for their young children and feared a spike in drink/drug issues, litter and traffic.
A third, who has lived in the area for almost 25 years, said the plans caused "serious concern" and suggested the proposals could amount to "inadequate living conditions in a crammed unhealthy environment".
They also said they feared the HMO could cause noise problems and "drive down house prices in the area".
Meanwhile, another homeowner in the area said the plans made for "very uncomfortable reading" which "feels like scaremongering".
Similarly, another objector found the plans to be "draconian", stating that the plans favour the "greed of the developer" and "not for the benefit of its occupants".
"Why can't the pub be converted into small flats? 17 people using a communal kitchen, bathrooms and toilets - it is something that belongs in the past", wrote another.
In its approval of the plans on Monday, June 5, the council said the development must begin within three years and will not commence until the secure cycle parking has been secured.
The council also said the bathroom and toilet windows should be fitted with obscured glazing.
If you have a story, I cover all things Oldham from food reviews and local business news to music and events, pubs, education, crime, property, health, community concerns and much more. Please email me at Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk or send me a message on Twitter @Livbridge with your news.
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