Several neighbours have objected to plans to demolish a residential building in Stoke-on-Trent to make way for a 28-bedroom HMO and two flats.

Outline planning permission has been sought to demolish a house on Wellington Street, Hanley and build a house of multiple occupation (HMO) comprising 28 bedrooms and two one-bedroom flats.

There is currently a two-storey detached house on the site, which the application says has "fallen into disrepair".

A total of 13 comments have been submitted to the online Stoke-on-Trent City Council planning portal by members of the public concerning the application - all of which raise concerns about the plans.

Common themes raised in the objections include "inadequate parking", traffic congestion and blocking light and views from neighbouring properties.

One commenter said: "This 28 person HMO plus two flats would be an oppressive, light blocking construction looming over the terraced properties opposite."

Another described the plans as "a clear overdevelopment of the site" which "would cause significant and unacceptable harm to the residential amenity of neighbouring properties".

Several of the commenters explained that parking is an existing issue in the area.

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One objector wrote: "Too many cars will be traveling up this road, which will result in a problem with residential parking, as well as creating a risk with civilians."

Another explained that parking spaces for residents in the area "are regularly at full capacity".

The Local Highways Authority (LHA) has also objected to the proposals.

A document submitted by the LHA stated: "The LHA has some concerns that providing 5 spaces will not be adequate."

It added: "The LHA also has concerns that the proposed development has the potential to result in an increase in deliveries which may be difficult due to narrow residential roads and parking at junctions on the surrounding highway network."

Other consultees, including Environmental Health, the Local Flooding Authority and Staffordshire Police did not object to the proposals.

The proposed building would be built over two and four storeys with two staircases and a passenger lift.

Wellington Street is mostly "defined by traditional two-storey terraced housing", but there are high-rise residential towers located nearby to the north-east.

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The design and access statement submitted alongside the planning application states: "The four-storey element offers a 'visual step down' from the towering apartment blocks towards the traditional street level.

"By introducing this medium-rise density, the design mitigates the stark juxtaposition between the existing two-storey dwellings and the nearby towers."

Additionally, the site was described as being "located within a sustainable urban environment with excellent access to public transport, local services, and employment hubs."

The application added: "The proposed use represents a sustainable and appropriate reuse of an existing residential property.

"The design retains the building's character, meets housing demand, and will be carefully managed to ensure minimal impact on local amenity."

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has yet to make a decision on the application.

To view the full application, visit the Stoke-on-Trent City Council planning website here.