A developer has submitted pans to convert the former Avondale Fisheries, in Thornes, Wakefield, into a house of multiple occupancy (HMO).

Residents say the proposal will have a negative impact on the local community and could attract anti-social behaviour in an already overcrowded area.

Objectors say there is a lack of parking spaces in the area around Avondale Street and Tew Street, describing the proposed number of bedrooms as “excessive”.

The residents are being backed by local councillors.

Michael Graham, councillor for Wakefield West, said: “It is a totally inappropriate site. Parking is so limited here as it is.

“I think 17 bedrooms in such a small area is no way for people to live.

“People will be living like battery chickens – it is ridiculous.

“The developer is taking advantage of a cost of living crisis, looking to make the maximum profit.

“It is a monstrosity, it is an abomination, it is ugly and it needs to be stopped.”

So far, more than 130 objections have been made to Wakefield Council in the past seven days.

One resident wrote: “How on earth can there be a 17-bedroom property on that site without there being significant changes to the current building?

“Any such building would be completely out of place on such a street and would be likely to dominate the surrounding properties from an aesthetic point of view and also would create a loss of light for some residents.”

Another objection states: “Whilst I imagine that such accommodation is much needed in Wakefield, it should be located on an appropriately-sized site with sufficient parking facilities for tenants and visitors.

“In my opinion this site cannot accommodate this proposed increase in occupation and should not be allowed to go ahead.”

Another states: “This abomination of a planning application must not be allowed to go through, not only will it impact on lighting of certain houses and the ramifications of parking, I’m sure it will impact on the surrounding residents’ metal health and well-being.”

Developer Ryan Beaumont said he hoped to meet with local residents to discuss the plans.

He said the building work would be of a high standard and complied with Government housing policy.

Mr Beaumont said: “Every HMO always has some objections and it is no coincidence that it is always the neighbours.

“It is all about who doesn’t want to see any change.

“We are not thinking about the housing crisis and housing young professionals who are not able to get out of mum and dad’s home.

“We believe HMOs are a good solution for young professionals. I lived in one for ten years and I’m a pretty decent guy.”

Mr Beaumont said any tenants housed in his HMOs were fully reference-checked.

He added: “If you have bad people in the properties they always cost us money.

“I think it is completely fair for local residents to assume the worst when something like this is slapped on their doorstep.

“But we can assure them that this will be completed to a high standard.”

Residents launch campaign to stop former fish shop being turned into house for 17 people