A petition was launched over plans to convert a former Sheffield pub into a 19-person property.
The Sportsman pub on Darnall Road, Sheffield, closed in 2022 and has remained empty since.
GAP Properties plans to convert the former pub into a 19-bed house in multiple occupation.
A house in multiple occupation is a property rented out by at least 3 different tenants but share facilities like the bathroom and kitchen.
Mahara Haque, a local resident, started the petition and raises the community’s concerns over the issues which include safety for children, parking, anti-social behaviour, increase in rubbish disposal.
She said: “People are really concerned about what’s happening with the property, there is a massive need for local housing in the area but why not convert it instead to multiple one or two bed flats.”
Some residents believe that multiple smaller flats designed for families and couples would create longer term tenants which would increase the security of the area.
Residents of Darnall agree that adequate housing is a basic human right, but we need to know who will be housed in this property due to its proximity to a popular local park.
The petition asks for residents to get more information on the tenants who might be living there.
GAP Properties were fined £20,000 after failing to carry out safety improvements on a similar property in Kirkburn last year where inspectors found a collapsed celling and no heat or smoke detectors.
Suzy Norton, resident of Quarryfield Road said: “Not once has anyone spoken to us about the type of people we will have living next to us.”
Nearby Residents received letters about planning permission however they argue the notice was too short and after the work had already started.
The petition has gained 43 signatures from residents however Ms Haque believes the number would be higher but some residents are scared to raise their voices and do not have access to an email address or have a language barrier.
Clive Betts, labour MP for Sheffield South East, said: “Housing Officers at the Council would have to the layout of the site, its suitability for residents and importantly, the management proposals that would be put in place.
“Any concerns they may have at that stage about the suitability of the managers would be taken into account.”
