A proposal to convert a five-bedroom residential house in Leamington Spa into a privately rented five-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) has been refused by Warwick District Council.

The application, which concerned 29 Westlea Road, was turned down due to fears the change would exacerbate existing issues such as noise, disturbance, and anti-social behaviour, ultimately harming the quality of life for nearby residents.

In total, four public objections were submitted.

These raised concerns about the impact on parking and emergency vehicle access, noise, disturbance, and inadequate natural light for a future occupant of the rear ground-floor bedroom.

Cllr Jonathan Chilvers also objected to the plans, citing the property's distance from a bus stop, lack of cycle storage, and insufficient attention to Biodiversity Net Gain requirements.

However, no objections were raised by Royal Leamington Spa Town Council, WDC Private Sector Housing, WDC Waste Management, or WDC Environmental Health.

In its decision, Warwick District Council stated: "The proposed change of use is considered to be unacceptable in principle and would have a harmful impact on neighbouring residential amenity.

"However, there would be no increased demand for parking as a result of the change of use.

"The proposed change of use is therefore recommended for refusal."

Applicants have the right to appeal the decision if planning permission is refused or granted with unreasonable conditions.

The full planning application can be viewed here.