Drug dealers and ‘discarded needles’ among concerns over plans for South Shields house

‘Drug users and dealers’ and ‘discarded needles’ are among the concerns raised about plans for a HMO in South Shields which town hall chiefs have been recommended to approve.
Discarded needles are among the concerns raised.Discarded needles are among the concerns raised.
Discarded needles are among the concerns raised.

The application is seeking permission to formally designate one property in Seafield Terrace a six-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) and a second a two-person residential property.

The scheme, which is due to be considered by South Tyneside Council’s Planning Committee on Monday (February 18), has been used as flats by a registered social landlord since 2010.

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But despite an indication from the council’s planning department that it should be approved, the proposals have provoked opposition, including a petition, from people living nearby.

According to one objection submitted to the council: “The Police are at the property on a regular basis, usually at some unsociable time either to arrest someone or following a complaint.”

Another made allegations of ‘drug / alcohol abuse and violence’ at the property.

But despite this police have not submitted any complaints to the council.

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However, investigations by planning officers did reveal ‘several reports of anti-social behaviour’ and some arrests.

According to the council’s report, ‘placements’ at the property are intended to ease tenants ‘back into mainstream permanent house wherever possible’.

 

James Harrison

James Harrison , Local Democracy Reporting Service