Developers behind controversial HMO plan for former city hotel urge people to 'look at the merits'

THEY SAY IT WILL PROVIDE 'REALLY HIGH-QUALITY SPACE FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS'

- By ANDREW SPENCE

THE developers behind plans for a colossal HMO in Hull city centre have addressed the concerns of local politicians who fear the plans could lead to overcrowding and a rise in antisocial behaviour.

Earlier this year, plans were submitted to Hull City Council to turn the former Portland Hotel on Paragon Street into a 122-bed House in Multiple Occupation.

Soon after the application emerged, local politicians including the three ward councillors and the local MP raised concerns over the plans.

The site is within Hull City Council's St Andrew's and Docklands ward which is represented by three Labour Party councillors, Cllr Leanne Fudge, Cllr Haroldo Herrera-Richmond, and the leader of the Hull Labour Group, Cllr Daren Hale. All three councillors, as well as the area's MP, Emma Hardy, have spoken against the application.

Ms Hardy has backed a petition calling for the plans to be rejected, with the MP taking to social media to say: "This plan risks overcrowding and a rise in antisocial behaviour. Instead, we support the creation of good-quality, affordable homes which supports the shared ambition of everyone in Hull to vibrantly regenerate our city centre."