Controversial plans to convert a former Valleys B&B into a house in multiple occupation (HMO), which faced opposition from over 1,000 individuals, have been denied approval by councillors. The application from D2 PropCo Ltd for the Mount Pleasant Hotel in Cardiff Road, Merthyr Vale, was brought before Merthyr Tydfil Council’s planning committee. The proposal received a petition with 1,275 signatures and 91 objection letters. Despite the planning officer’s recommendation for approval, councillors voted against it at the meeting on September 11.
The property, once a bed and breakfast, ceased operating as such several years ago and has since been utilised as a large residential property. Concerns raised by objectors included fears of safety hazards for young children, the elderly, and other vulnerable individuals due to the HMO setup. They also voiced worries about an overconcentration of HMOs impacting the area’s character and potential issues with anti-social behaviour, noise, and parking.
Objectors highlighted limited parking on site and in the neighbourhood, which could lead to congestion and obstruct emergency services. They stressed the preference to retain the building for community use, such as a pub, recreational centre, or community hub. However, planning officers argued in favour of approving the HMO conversion, stating the property had been marketed for sale without success and that HMOs typically have low parking demands.
The planning report acknowledged the impact of non-family households on an area’s character but contended there were no nearby HMOs based on council records. It suggested the former B&B’s visitor traffic did not justify refusing the HMO conversion. Addressing concerns about anti-social behaviour and parking shortages, the report proposed shared responsibility among authorities and the property’s management, citing existing parking spaces and proximity to public transport.
Objectors’ worries about HMO occupants causing disturbances were cautioned against, with the report affirming the property’s change of use would not exacerbate existing parking issues. Mention was made of the property’s location near a bus stop, promoting sustainable travel. The planning report concluded by proposing additional on-street parking solutions further down Cardiff Road and in nearby side streets to alleviate parking pressures.
The rejected plans will return for further consideration at the next planning committee meeting in October. The contentious debate underlines the community’s strong sentiments in preserving the building’s usage for public benefit, echoing broader concerns about the impact of increased HMO presence on local residents and the area’s character.