Objections over bid to turn Lowestoft home into HMO for asylum seekers

Just over two months ago change of use plans were lodged to convert a seven-bedroom, mid terrace property at 47 London Road South in Kirkley, into a nine-bedroom HMO property "providing accommodation for asylum seekers".

After numerous objections, the plans - lodged by agents Principle Design, on behalf of the applicant Patrice Elonge in March - were refused under delegated powers after East Suffolk Council ruled on May 13 that the application was contrary to relevant policies.

It led to a fresh bid being submitted to East Suffolk Council on June 27 to use the seven-bedroom property at 47 London Road South as accommodation for asylum seekers in an eight-bedroom House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO).

Change of use plans have been lodged for the property at 47 London Road South, Kirkley in Lowestoft. Picture: Principle Design (Image: Principle Design)

However, the proposals - lodged once more by Principle Design, on behalf of Patrice Elonge - have sparked criticism.

The scheme centring around "Change of use from residential dwelling to eight bedroom House of Multiple Occupancy is awaiting decision with the council.

A design and access statement said: "The property will be used as accommodation for asylum seekers (vulnerable tenants).

"Once completed, the property will be manged by Serco who will fully maintain the property and provide accommodation for asylum seekers."

The proposed elevations and floor plans for 47 London Road South, Kirkley in Lowestoft. Picture: Principle Design (Image: Principle Design)

But since the application was submitted three weeks ago a dozen locals have lodged objections to the scheme, and Lowestoft Town Council's planning committee has met to consider the application.

The town council said: "It was agreed to recommend refusal of the application as the committee remain concerned about the welfare of occupants and the living conditions of the dwelling (which is sited in an economically deprived area)."

A London Road South resident added: "The previous application was refused and a reduction of one room doesn't feel enough to change the views previously stated.

"Our area already has fly-tipping issues and the increased tenancy would more than likely contribute to this."