Planners recommend 11-bed HMO despite objections
Google MapsPlanners have recommended approval of an 11-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO) which has attracted dozens of objections and a petition against it.
About 40 public objections were raised alongside 470 petition signatures opposing the development of the former care facility on Godfrey Road, Grindon. There were also 20 representations welcoming plans for the "eyesore" empty building.
A management plan submitted by developer Metters Properties said the HMO will provide "high-quality" living for "young professionals".
Sunderland City Council's planning and highways committee will decide on the scheme at a public meeting at City Hall on 10 June.
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the property had been "vacant for several years" and had "subsequently fallen into a state of disuse".
Objections from residents to the plans included concerns about noise, privacy and antisocial behaviour.
There were also fears about increased waste and traffic congestion.
However, supporters described the development as a "positive and much needed improvement".
One comment said the plan would "do nothing but lift the area and everybody who lives around and opposite the property".
In a report to the council, planning officials said the proposal was "not considered to be detrimental to the amenity of nearby residents, future occupants, visual amenity or highway safety".
