Controversial 23-bed HMO plan rejected after furious residents hold protest
A plan to transform a pub into a 23-bedroom house of multiple occupation has been refused.
Sandwell Council’s planning committee last night rejected the application to turn the Hollybush, The Uplands, Smethwick into a HMO.
Hours before the planning committee met residents held a protest outside the pub as councillors carried out a site visit.
Tempers flared as residents complained the HMO would house “paedophiles” and “criminals” and six-foot graffiti “no hostel” was daubed over the pub’s fence.
Residents also challenged Sandwell Council planning officer John Baker who accompanied councillors on the site visit.
