Plans for a house in multiple occupation (HMO) in Darlington have been withdrawn.

Proposals involved converting an office building at 193 Northgate, North Lodge, into a five-bedroom HMO.

The planning application was submitted by Rami Aldilaimi, represented by James Connor of Keystone Architectural Surveying & Developments.

Plans were withdrawn on Monday and Darlington Borough Council had not yet reached a decision - the reasons for the withdrawal have not been disclosed.

Proposed changes would not have altered the building's exterior, nor would they have affected pedestrian or vehicle access.

The building lies within the Northgate Conservation Area and is near two Grade II listed buildings, North Lodge and Northgate United Reformed Church.

Development plans were designed to preserve the architectural character of the area and to align with local planning policies.

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The Highway Development Control team raised concerns about potential parking pressure due to the increased number of residents.

They recommended careful management of parking to avoid congestion but did not formally object to the proposal.

Environmental Health did not object to the proposal but noted the need for proper waste management systems due to the increase in residents.

Noise control was also recommended, particularly given the proximity of other residential properties.

Proposed developments were considered to have minimal visual or environmental impact on the surrounding conservation area and listed buildings.

It was also noted that the proposal aligned with local sustainability goals.

A HMO is defined as a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one household but share facilities like the bathroom and kitchen.

Landlords of HMOs must meet certain standards and legal obligations, including obtaining a licence if the property is rented to five or more people.

Licences are only granted if the property is deemed large enough for the number of occupants and meets certain safety standards.

Failure to obtain a licence can result in hefty fines for landlords.