Plans to convert a property opposite Gloucester Rugby’s Kingsholm Stadium into a house in multiple occupation (HMO) have been approved. Albion Quarters received permission to refurbish 18 Kingsholm Road, including adding a new rear dormer window, transforming the building into an eight-bed, single-occupancy HMO.
Stuart Homewood, director of Albion Quarters, explained to Gloucester City Council’s planning committee that the property was previously used as an HMO before falling vacant due to dilapidation. The company began internal refurbishment to restore the property to a high standard of residential use, aiming to provide safe, comfortable, and compliant accommodation for students and professionals.
Homewood emphasized that the HMO would add to the housing supply without increasing neighborhood activity beyond that expected of a large family home. He also highlighted that the property would have a mandatory HMO licence, ensuring proper management, safety, and responsible occupancy.
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Councillor Andy Lewis noted that the plans maintain the building’s design and provide housing for eight individuals. While the property includes only two parking spaces, he remarked that the area frequently accommodates tens of thousands of visitors on match days, so this was not a significant concern. Lewis praised the project as a beneficial use of a dilapidated building.
Councillor Roseanna Marshall supported the scheme, pointing to the new university nearby and the growing demand for student accommodation. She described the location as ideal for students from Gloucestershire University and Hartpury College.
Ultimately, the planning committee voted unanimously to approve the development, marking a positive step toward expanding quality housing options in the Kingsholm area.