Plans have been lodged to convert a former social club into a house in multiple occupation (HMO).

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to bring the former Nalgo Club building at 28 Westbourne Road back into use.

The application notes the property has been vacant since January 2023.

However new proposals from Ascend Property Limited are looking to bring the site back into use as a 12-bedroom HMO which would “provide living accommodation for residents/young professionals”.

Each of the bedrooms would have its own en-suite, while the property would have two shared kitchen areas, one featuring a living room, two communal studies, two laundry rooms and a further communal living area.

A planning statement submitted in support of the application outlines how “special attention” has been made to ensure each bedroom complies with the council’s HMO guidelines and provides spaces “aimed at young professionals”.

It said: “The applicant wishes to bring the property back to life through sensitive repairs and new extensions that fulfil the potential of the property that can then be repurposed and provide a new character to the area.

“Due to the high proportion of households in this ward being occupied by a single person, there should be demand for HMO properties in the area.

“These properties could house individuals in far more affordable accommodation, for the benefit of that individual or the local authority whilst freeing up larger properties for families.”

It adds they are aiming “to create high-quality spaces that target long-term tenants”.

Planning documents note the application would see a new first-floor rear extension provided and external alterations to the existing building, with “high quality” materials used during construction. 

The building would also be arranged so all bedrooms benefit from “a decent amount of sunlight therefore minimising the energy costs and providing an efficient system and solar gain”, according to proposals.

The six-car parking spaces already at the site would be retained in the development, while 12 new cycle spaces would be provided.

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HMOs refer to properties such as a house split into separate bedsits, a shared house/flat or a hostel.

A decision is expected to be made on the proposals in October.

To comment on the application visit the council planning portal online and search reference number H/2024/0194.

*A previous story contained a picture of South Durham Social Club. We would like to clarify that the South Durham Social Club is not at the centre of this application*