Northampton neighbourhood revolts after HMO application receives more than 60 letters of objection

The residents of the Scottish Streets in St James have rejected an application to create another House in Multiple Occupancy on their road.

A Northampton community has put its foot down over an application for a new HMO in one of its neighbourhoods.

A plan is underway to convert a terraced house in Forfar Street in St James into a property for six people.

However, the proposal has been met with scorn from the combined force of the 'Scottish Streets' off Holyrood Road and Glasgow Street, who together have lodged more than 60 letters of objection.

In fact, every letter received by the council from residents has been against the plan, who have scolded it as "unacceptable", "absurd" and "unwanted".

Planning papers also show that only four houses on the street were contacted about the application, meaning the consultation's response has been the result of word-of-mouth in the community.

One letter from a homeowner reads: "I strongly object. We already have four HMOs in forfar Street. It has led to anti-social behaviour, loud music, noise, drugs and comings and goings every hour of day and night.

"This is a quiet family street and HMOs are destroying our neighbourhood.

"Parking is a nightmare. Another six people parking and all their friends is unfair.

"We all feel the same."

Several letters also reference a house party that was thrown at a HMO in Forfar Street and reportedly attracted over 100 people. The bash in December resulted in a £10,000 fine by police for the organisers for breaching Covid guidelines.Another letter reads: "Because those in a HMO are unlikely to be long term residents, they are less likely to care about the environment and neighbours.

"All of the above must be a warning to you that we can't bear any more of this, and as our council and planning office, you should understand this and not expect us to ensure any more."