Birmingham Council Launches Probe Into 'Unauthorized' HMO Build Amid Safety Concerns
Birmingham City Council planning enforcement officers have initiated a formal investigation into the construction of an allegedly unauthorized House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 191 Warwards Lane in Selly Park. The probe follows urgent complaints from local residents who describe the ongoing works as creating a "serious public safety risk" and "an accident waiting to happen."
Residents Report Hazardous Conditions and Environmental Damage
The campaign group Selly Park Central, composed of concerned residents, has documented multiple hazards at the site. They report that building materials, including rubble and sand, are frequently spilling onto the street and pavement, obstructing the public highway. Heavy items such as bricks and breeze blocks are reportedly being held back by only a thin sheet of plywood adjacent to a busy bus stop, raising alarm about potential injuries.
Additionally, the group claims that at least seven large mature trees in the rear garden were cut down during June, the height of bird nesting season, using what appeared to be inadequate safety equipment. This has sparked deep concerns about the environmental impact and loss of local wildlife habitat, compounding the community's distress.
Site Inspection Reveals Further Issues
During a recent visit to the property, observers noted earth and loose soil spilling from large builders' bags onto the street at the front of the site, with large bricks piled in the busy road. Residents have also reported builders working on the roof without scaffolding and unsafe storage of materials, leading to debris spreading along the street.
The campaign group emphasized that the unauthorized works, destruction of mature trees, the large structure being built in the garden, and ongoing safety hazards have left the community feeling ignored and increasingly anxious about potential future incidents if no action is taken.
Council Response and Investigation Details
Jamie Scott, councillor for Bournbrook and Selly Park, has contacted the council's planning officers to investigate the matter. A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council confirmed that a complaint regarding works reportedly aimed at creating an HMO has been received and passed to the Planning Enforcement team.
The council stated: "The matter has been passed to our Planning Enforcement team and will be registered in line with our standard procedures. Once the case is formally logged, officers will carry out the appropriate checks to establish whether any planning breach has occurred."
No planning application relating to the site has been found publicly. Property records indicate the site was purchased for £250,000 in March 2025 by 'W A Property Ltd', registered at 243 Mary Street, Balsall Heath, with no readily available contact number online.
Selly Park Central hopes that raising public awareness will prompt authorities to conduct an urgent inspection before a serious incident occurs, underscoring the community's call for immediate action to address these pressing safety and environmental concerns.
