A hotel close to Spring Bank in Hull’s city centre could be turned into a ‘house in multiple occupation’ (HMO) if plans are given the go-ahead.

A planning application has been lodged to turn the Hullywood Rooms into a HMO, meaning it could become home to 27 people.

The Hullywood Rooms is currently operating as a hotel on Park Row, just off Park Street, which is near the back of St Stephen’s shopping centre. Its website boasts of ‘a perfect blend of convenience and serenity’ and highlights its handy location just a short stroll from shops, restaurant and amenities.

All of its bedrooms have en-suite facilities and there is already a shared kitchen in the building. Consultation on the proposed conversion to a HMO is now open, with members of the public being invited to share their views with planning officers at Hull City Council.

placeholder image — Hullywood Rooms, Hull

The property has 12 onsite parking spaces. Online reviews for the hotel are mixed, with some visitors praising its good value and central location. Other reviews state the hotel is akin to a university halls of residence and noting ‘the area looks a little scary at night’.

There are concerns that there are too many HMOs in Hull already. And these types of accommodation are being concentrated into certain postcodes, according to some councillors.

Councillor Shane McMurray (Labour – representing the Central ward) is leading calls for tougher regulation on HMOs around the city. Although not commenting on this specific application, he believes Hull City Council needs to do much more to regulate this type of housing which is often used by people on a short-term basis.

He has proposed a motion with the authority that calls for far tougher regulation and is urging a new Local Plan to be delivered, hoping that this strategic vision could help to reduce the density of HMOs in parts of Hull.

Coun McMurray said his proposed tougher rules were essential to protect both private tenants and local communities living in Hull.

He explained: “Residents frequently report problems linked to HMOs, including about quality, environmental issues and anti-social behaviour, especially when these are used as ‘supported’ accommodation for vulnerable people experiencing addiction and other complex without sufficient support.

“We owe it to the residents and tenants we represent to fight for better standards of housing.”

Because the plan is for a larger type of HMO, it is likely the final decision on the Hullywood Rooms will be made by Hull City Council’s planning committee. Neighbours, statutory agencies, and the general public have two weeks left to submit official comments or objections on the plan for the hotel.