A controversial plan to turn a terraced house in Banbridge into a house in multiple occupation (HMO) is not going ahead – despite having secured planning approval earlier this week.
Ulster Unionist councillor Glenn Barr says the owner of 23 Brooke Terrace has now decided to abandon the proposal and “respect the wishes of local residents”.
The application, lodged by Peter Irvine, had sought permission to convert the four‑bedroom property into a five‑bedroom HMO for five people. It was approved by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s planning committee on Wednesday following a recorded vote.
However, Cllr Barr confirmed on Saturday that the scheme will not proceed.
“Great news for residents,” he said. “I have just been informed that the owner of the property proposed for an HMO in Brooke Terrace, Banbridge is not proceeding and will be respecting the wishes of local residents.
“I spoke in opposition to the application and will continue to support residents. I wish the owner all the best.”
The decision to pull back comes after strong local opposition and a wave of reaction to Armagh I’s original report on the committee’s approval.
A total of 38 objections from 21 addresses had been lodged with council planners, citing concerns over increased noise, parking and congestion, impact on the character and amenity of the area, potential anti‑social behaviour, extra household waste, overcrowding and pressure on local services such as water and sewage. Some objectors also complained that not all neighbours had been notified.
Planning officers had recommended approval, arguing there would be “very little change” to the appearance of the property, that parking levels were acceptable for a town‑centre location and that environmental health officials had raised no concerns about residential amenity.
They noted the property was already a four‑bedroom dwelling capable of housing four adults, and said moving to a five‑bedroom, five‑person HMO represented only a marginal increase in density in a predominantly residential area.
At committee, Sinn Féin councillors Paul Duffy, Fergal Donnelly and John Óg O’Kane backed the recommendation, while DUP councillor Kyle Moutray voted against, voicing fears over “intensification of use” and the impact on the established character of Brooke Terrace.
Although planning permission technically remains in place, Cllr Barr’s update confirms the owner has chosen not to act on it, bringing an end – for now – to the prospect of a second registered HMO in Banbridge.
