Two new HMOs planned for Littleborough

Monday, 27 October 2025 11:40

By David Murphy

Two vacant office buildings in Littleborough could be converted into houses of multiple occupation under new plans submitted to Rochdale Council.

Developer Abdul Rouf is seeking permission to turn offices at 65 and 69A Church Street into shared housing for up to 11 residents. The proposal includes a three-bedroom home for four people at number 65, and a seven-bedroom unit for seven people at number 69A.

Design statements from DP Architectural Services say both buildings will undergo internal refurbishment but will largely retain their existing layouts. Minimal external work is planned, with only security shutters and window grills set to be removed.

At 65 Church Street, the ground floor would be converted into an open plan kitchen, dining, and living area, with added WC facilities. Three bedrooms would be provided upstairs, each fitted with hand basins, along with a shared bathroom.

For the larger property at 69A Church Street, plans outline three bedrooms and kitchen space on the ground floor, and four additional bedrooms upstairs alongside extra WC and shower facilities and a lounge. Each bedroom would also be plumbed with hand basins.

The entrance at 69A would lead to a communal hallway, with an existing bathroom and a new WC installed at ground level.

Both properties currently have parking spaces, which would be retained under the proposals.

Architects say the conversion of these empty buildings into housing would align with the National Planning Policy Framework by contributing to the borough’s housing supply and bringing underused properties back into beneficial use.

In a statement accompanying the applications, DP Architectural Services added: “The refurbishments are proposed to be in keeping with the area with minimal alterations.”