A CONTROVERSIAL plan to convert a building into a house of multiple occupation has been rejected after a backlash from neighbours.

Plans were put forward to turn the former Cumbria Alcohol and Drug Advisory Service centre in Barrow's Paradise Street into a house with 12 bedrooms.

Some 19 objections were lodged by neighbours fearing the development would have a harmful effect on the area.

A report said the council received the same letter from 18 residents of nearby Harrison Street.

Residents were concerned at the number of HMOs in the area and the effect that housing more people would have on traffic and parking.

Fears over children's safety with people "coming and going" from the house were also raised. 

Under the plans, the building would have seen its existing floors and loft converted, with a roof terrace created.

Barrow Council's planning committee was told the applicant was an "experienced property manager" who owned properties around Barrow and in the North East. 

Planning consultant Matthew Sheppard said: "There's no reasonable basis to suspect that this application will increase risks to children.

"Continuation of the existing use would carry the same, if not greater, risk than what the application proposes.

"This application will meet a need for low-cost and accessible housing for contract workers and people who travel to Barrow for work.

"It will generate new spending to keep the town alive and support local businesses.

"If nothing is done the building will continue to deteriorate and will eventually become an eyesore."

Members of the committee were recommended to approve the application by the council's planning department.

Councillor Les Hall proposed a motion to reject the application, saying it would have a "detrimental effect on residents in the area".

Councillors voted to reject the plan.

Planning officer Jason Hipkiss said if the applicant appealed the decision he did not believe it would "hold up" before a planning inspector and could cost the council thousands of pounds.