PLANS to increase the number of people allowed to live in a Winchester home look set to be refused after criticism from council officers.

The proposal, for 44 Fromond Road, Weeke, would see the existing HMO (house of multiple occupation) increased from six to eight bedrooms.

Applicant Julian Bessey said in the plans the building would not need to be physically extended.

However, the move has attracted criticism from the City of Winchester Trust. A spokesman said in an objection: “Details regarding the necessary utilities and facilities required for such an extension are... lacking.

“This application also appears to propose an extreme intensification of use for a small dwelling.”

Winchester City Council environmental health officer Sara Hayes-Arter also criticised the plans for “what would have originally been a three-bedroomed house”. She said: “Due to insufficient information provided, I recommend that this application be refused at this time.

“As the property is a terrace, there is the potential that additional tenants will create additional noise disturbance to properties on either side of this application. I would therefore advise the applicant to provide details regarding the current and proposed internal layout.”

Kevin Reed, private sector housing team leader, added: “This application proposes to create a bedroom... to the rear of the current lounge/ dining area and the creation of a new living area incorporating the current inner room. The creation of bedroom five will cause the new living room to be an inner room devoid of natural ventilation and light.”