Plans for new HMO submitted for The Retreat outside City Centre

Plans for a six-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) on the outskirts of city centre have been submitted to the council.

Sunderland City Council’s planning department has received an application for 2 The Retreat, near The Royalty Theatre, in the city’s Millfield ward.

The site is an end of terrace property which sits off Chester Road, near the University of Sunderland’s City Campus.

New plans from applicant Taj Realty Limited aim to formally change the use of the property to a HMO offering six bedrooms.

Applicants said the plans would “contribute to the provision of a range of high-quality student accommodation options to support the continued growth of Sunderland University”.

It was also noted that the HMO would be “fully managed and policies will be included within tenancy agreements in relation to tenant conduct, including in relation to anti-social behaviour and noise”, as well as the property being “subject to regular maintenance”.

Local residents have largely opposed or been fearful of HMO plans for their neighbourhoods due to fears it could increase crime or make the area unsafe.

Recent HMO proposals in Donwell, Washington as well as a now discarded one for Thorney Close provoked widespread opposition.

Sunderland City Council’s planning portal website lists a decision deadline of June 25, 2024.