A LISTED pub in a Bradford Conservation Area will find a second life as a collection of bedsits after plans to convert the building were approved.

An application to change the empty George and Dragon on Great Horton Road into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) went before members of Bradford Council’s Regulatory and Appeals Committee yesterday, where one member called the plan “ a really good scheme.”

A HMO is a type of accommodation with separate bedrooms but shared facilities such as dining and lounge areas.

The planning application, submitted by Yorkshire Property Surveyors, would see 10 bedrooms created in the pub.

Fifteen people had objected to the application, with many raising concerns about the type of people who will live in the HMO.

Planning officer Amin Ibrar said: “we can’t refuse a residential planning application based on how potential tenants might behave.”

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Councillor Paul Godwin (Lab, Keighley West) asked if the pub’s former beer garden could be turned into a grassed area for residents of the HMO. He said: “One of the main issues with HMOs is the quality of living conditions for the people who occupy there dwellings.Could we not create a garden with flower beds?”

Mr Ibrar pointed out there was a beer garden area that would remain after the conversion. Cllr Godwin replied: “That is not exactly what I would call a garden. Could we ask that this be made into a grassed area?”

Mr Ibrar said: “I’m not sure how much benefit you’d get from that.”

Cllr Godwin added: “I think there are substantial benefits - it would be an area outside where you can get some sunshine rather than being stuck in all day.”

Agent for the applicant Jonathan Legge said he would be happy to add the garden space. He said: “The problem with HMOs or flats is often residents have no outside space. This area is ready made for it.”

He told members: “What I wanted to do with this building is to keep it the centre of the community. The building mustn’t be changed - but it must continue to live. Making it into a home that people can enjoy continues that. We will keep the name, we will keep everything about it as original as possible.”

Chair Councillor David Warburton (Lab, Wyke) said: “I like that attitude. It is a lovely old building, but it does need a use. I think this is a really good scheme. It is well thought out and will help bring the building back to life.”

Members unanimously approved the plan on the condition that a garden area is provided for residents.