Plans to convert a former Victorian church hall in Crewe into a HMO have been given the go-ahead.

On Wednesday 5 February, Cheshire East's southern planning committee voted in favour of the application from Skope Property Investments to convert the Vincent Street property into a 10-bed house in multiple occupation.

The application had been deferred by councillors at a meeting in December for more information about waste storage, how the site would be generally managed, and for clarification of available on-road parking in the evenings – as the proposal offered none on site.

On Wednesday 5 February, Cheshire East's southern planning committee voted in favour of the application from Skope Property Investments (Ryan Parker).

Crewe Town Council had objected to the scheme as had about 50 local residents.

One resident told the committee he was concerned about the lack of parking on the street, particularly in the evenings when there were no spaces.

But Rob Berry, representing the applicant, said photos taken by the applicant at 8pm on different days showed there were some parking spaces.

With regard to councillors' concerns about bin storage and bins being left on the street, Mr Berry said it would be the job of the management company to ensure they were removed from the pavement after collections.

Crewe councillor Roger Morris (Conservative), raised concerns about the small room sizes.

"Ten rooms in that area – they are almost like cells, I think," he said.

One Vincent Street resident told the committee he was concerned about the lack of parking on the street, particularly in the evenings when there were no spaces (Ryan Parker).

Planning officer Daniel Evans said the rooms met, or were above, the council's standards.

"We have seen HMOs where they've got shared bathrooms previously, these have all got their own en-suites.

"I think, compared to other applications we have seen, and others that don't need planning permission, this level of accommodation is better than we see on other sites," he said.

Cllr Linda Buchanan (Shavington, Labour), said, although she wasn't a big fan of HMOs, she would be supporting the application because it would mean a significant Victorian building is being saved.

"As long as it's sympathetically converted, especially the external features, to me that is a plus," said Cllr Buchanan.

She added: "Obviously in an ideal world you'd like to see this converted for more space for those living there."

Cllr Linda Buchanan (Shavington, Labour), supported the HMO development (CEC).

Cllr Andrew Kolker (Dane Valley, Conservative), proposed the application be approved and this was seconded by Cllr John Wray (Brereton, Conservative).

Six councillors voted in favour of the application, three against and two abstained.

READ MORE: What's on in Crewe this weekend: Pink Floyd Tribute & Super Bowl Party.

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