Dozens object to plans to covert former Sheffield hotel into social housing

Dozens of residents have objected to plans to convert a hotel into social housing in a Sheffield neighbourhood.
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Fairhome Group submitted plans to Sheffield Council to turn the Staindrop Lodge Hotel, on Lane End, Chapeltown, into 44 affordable studio units.

In a statement with the plans Erimax Land, on behalf of the applicant, said: “People can become homeless for all kinds of reasons and securing an affordable home at a time of an acute shortage of decent and available affordable housing can sometimes prove to be a task beyond hope.

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“In full accordance with adopted and emerging policy, the proposed development will revitalise a previously developed site in a sustainable location and provide 44 affordable, manageable and urgently needed new homes.

Plans have bee submitted to convert Staindrop Lodge Hotel, in Chapeltown, Sheffield. Picture: Google MapsPlans have bee submitted to convert Staindrop Lodge Hotel, in Chapeltown, Sheffield. Picture: Google Maps
Plans have bee submitted to convert Staindrop Lodge Hotel, in Chapeltown, Sheffield. Picture: Google Maps

As well as the studios, the development will have modern amenities including kitchen and en-suite facilities, a formal outside area and a gym.

The site has been used by the council to house people unable to secure affordable housing during the pandemic.

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But neighbours said this had brought concerning anti-social behaviour including drug and alcohol abuse, noise and begging.

Currently there are 68 comments on the planning application from members of the public, 66 of which objected to the plans and one wrote in support.

Those objecting raised concern about an increase in antisocial behaviour and risk of crime and the impact this could have on property value as well as the loss of the current pub restaurant.

One neighbour, living on the nearby Malham Place, said: “I feel this to be totally wrong.

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“The area doesn’t have other hotels including a lovely restaurant and it will be a great loss as we have many visitors use this facility.

“I feel it is also not an appropriate area for anymore social housing as there is an elderly community in the area my parents included who are used to the area being quiet.

“They have already been targeted by some of the residents that have been housed in Staindrop Lodge during the lockdown that has frightened them.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.