More affordable homes are needed in two Liverpool communities and not further attempts to “gentrify", according to a local group.
Concerns have been raised about the increasing number of applications for houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) and student developments in the L7 and L8 areas by members of the L8 Matters Community Land Trust. The group has now formalised its issues in a statement, outlining what it believes needs to happen in their communities.
The trust was established to campaign for what it describes as “land and housing opportunities that truly benefit the people of Liverpool 8.” In its statement of intent, which was agreed by members, the group said it “strongly objects” to HMO and student accommodation applications within the L7 and L8 area and the Georgian Quarter.
READ MORE: Man dies after house fire that killed his fiancee
It said: “The areas of Liverpool 7 and 8 are slowly being gentrified to the detriment of the local community. They are increasingly being taken over by student accommodation and HMOs to the benefit of the universities and private developers. These schemes offer no affordable housing and often bring a host of problems into our local communities.”
The trust said it was setting out its position in response to the number of applications being lodged in the community which “bring a range of unintended problems to our communities.” Earlier this year, residents came together to oppose a planned development to build more than 180 student bedrooms and 105 apartments on a former church and probation centre on Falkner Street.
The group said: “We don’t need schemes like this in our communities, we need more affordable homes.” The statement added: “The suggestion that they take the pressure off existing housing is a misrepresentation as the many existing HMOs and student blocks in and around this area are already doing that and they do not create any affordable local housing options which are needed in the area.
“These schemes just move existing problems and issues with HMO occupants and students into this residential area from another."
The statement, which the group hopes will be considered at further Liverpool Council planning committee, says planning is a key decision that “impacts our communities significantly and a bad decision can be detrimental to local communities and the livelihoods and mental well-being of its residents.”
Get the top stories straight to your inbox by signing up to our what's on newsletter
READ NEXT:
Worst street for antisocial behaviour in Merseyside
Toddler dies day after being sent home from A&E
'I was told I'd be dead in 12 months if I didn't lose weight'
Developers promise 'huge year' for multi-billion Liverpool Waters
Chilling warning days before Elle Edwards gunned down in Christmas atrocity
