A BASINGSTOKE councillor has shared his reservations about a recent planning application seeking to convert a Victorian semi-detached house into a supported accommodation.

The proposal, presented by the Society of St James (SSJ), seeks to convert an eight-bedroom house in Worting Road into a supported accommodation with a staff office.

Supported by Homes England, SSJ is a charity that provides specialist support and accommodation for vulnerable people experiencing homelessness, problems with alcohol and substance use and other complex needs.

The application site, 104 Worting Road, is a three-storey semi-detached Victorian residence and is designated as a house in multiple occupation (HMO).

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Basingstoke Borough councillor Arun Mummalaneni expressed his concerns regarding the potential implications for the immediate neighbourhood if the proposal were to be approved as he fears offenders released from prisons will be living in the property.

He said: "I want to listen to the residents as it is a very sensitive issue. Of course, the immediate neighbourhood will be impacted. I know that the community needs to look after the released prisoners. But let's be honest, they spent some time in jail because they did something serious. If it is a petty crime, like shoplifting, they wouldn't be spending time in jail."

Cllr Mummalaneni acknowledged that there might be cases where individuals underwent positive transformations during their time in prison, but he also pointed out the need for a balanced approach, considering potential concerns.

He said: "I understand both sides of the argument. When the applicant sent details of the plan to the councillors, they showed that they would be doing weekly drug testing for the residents. The reason they are doing drug testing is that they suspect there is going to be drug abuse concerns. That is going to impact the neighbourhood.

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"I want to listen to the community who are living near this property as they have to put up with the residents day in and day out. At the moment, I'm staying neutral. I don't want to support the applications or object it, but I believe there should be some checks and balances before we approve it."

Cllr Mummalaneni, who is also a Hampshire County councillor, said a previous application to convert a property in Culver Road to supported accommodation was rejected because it involved constructing a new building. However, the current application has no external changes.

To view the plans, check with reference number 23/02336/FUL on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council's planning portal.

Society of St James has been contacted for a comment but it has yet to respond.