Plan to turn Chesterholm Lodge, Gosport care home into HMO

An application relating to Chesterholm Lodge in Britten Road, Lee-on-Solent, has so far sparked more than 100 letters of objection.

Many of the protesters say the proposed development could lead to a rise in anti-social behaviour in the area. 

Objectors include Lee councillor Stevyn Ricketts, whose letter to Gosport Borough Council says any decision to approve the application will "instill a sense of fear" into the community.

An aeria view of the Chesterholm Lodge site, which s outlined in red (Image: WindsorPatania)

He adds: "I am sure you will be receiving many formal objections from residents.

"Whilst one should not stereotype the character of those who take up residency in such properties, it is clear that HMOs are essentially a method of providing cheap accommodation for people whose housing options are limited and generally they receive more complaints than any other type of residential dwelling.

"HMOs that house more than five individuals are considered 'large'.

"This is a proposal for 15 individuals and would therefore be three times what is considered to be large and could potentially result in three times the amount of complaints and police attendance.

"The impact of introducing a 15-bed HMO at this location would be incredibly harmful to the character of the area and its current residents.

"Whilst I support the initiative of providing such accommodation to those with limited housing options, I believe this to be a most inappropriate location for an HMO."

An aerial view of the Chesterholm Lodge site, which is outlined in red (Image: WindsorPatania)

In a separate letter, Caroline Dinenage, Conservative MP for Gosport, says she has been contacted by "numerous" constituents who have raised objections to the application.

Protesters include Joan Buckland, of Grove Road, who says the scheme would be a "disaster" from the outset.

Fellow objector Christopher Ives, of Manor Way, adds: "I came here from Brighton, which has a very high ratio of HMOs. In my experience they create parking problems, drink and drug-related anti-social behaviour and consequent police intervention."

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David Solly, of Milvil Road, says: "A HMO in this location would radically alter the nature of this quiet neighbourhood."

Chesterholm Lodge has been empty since the care home closed in 2019.

The application says: "The proposed development will optimise the use of the site by creating a good environment for future tenants, who will benefit from the provided common areas.

"All rooms respect the HMO standards requirements to create a comfortable environment for the occupants."

The applicant, BSR London, is represented by planning agent WindsorPatania, which has been contacted for comment.