SNOBBERY has been named as the cause of some objections to an HMO scheme in Broadstone.

The site off Lower Blandford Road already has permission for five flats but the owners have now decided on a 15-place block on exactly the same footprint as the flats scheme.

The change of mind had led to objections from some neighbours after hearing that the new development would be classed as a “house in multiple occupation”.

Some claimed it could lead to increased noise and disturbance, extra traffic and even anti-social behaviour.

The scheme, which the developer says is aimed at young professionals, is for six single-bed units on the ground and first floor and three on the top floor – each floor having a shared kitchen and communal area.

The BCP Council area planning committee was told on Thursday that most of the trees on the site would be retained, although six, considered to be in a poor condition, would need to be felled and another removed to make way for the building.

Planning officers said that the proposals more than met the spaces needed for parking, access was considered adequate and the building was almost identical to the previously approved application for flats, being set back onto the site to avoid a loss of privacy for neighbours, including a small housing scheme next door at The Copse.

Ward councillor Vikki Slade said she would have no objection if the scheme was for a single home, or apartments, but was unhappy about the new proposals.

She argued that with the potential for 20 adults sharing the building it ought to be considered an overdevelopment with limited space in the communal areas for the number of people likely to be living there.

She also raised concerns about residents parking on neighbouring roads and the lack of solar panels, heat pumps or electric vehicle charge points, claiming the proposal would be out of character for the area.

But fellow councillors disagreed . Cllr Toby Johnson moved for approval telling the committee that most of the objections stemmed from rumours about what houses in multiple occupation were.

Said Cllr Steve Baron: “I’m really positive about it. As HMOs go this is probably the best I have ever seen. It’s just snobbery to assume it will bring crime and disorder to the area.”

Planning committee chair Cllr David Kelsey welcomed the development after a unanimous vote in its favour. He said the site was sustainable with good access to Wimborne and into Poole.

“Some people go into HMOs because they want to save up for a deposit on a house and we should encourage that. Everyone has a right to a home,” he said.