A former bed and breakfast (B&B) located beneath a thrilling hiking trail in Derbyshire is set to undergo a transformation, sparking both excitement and concern among locals. But here's the twist: it's not just any hiking trail, it's the infamous Giddy Edge, known for its breathtaking views and spine-chilling drops.
The Stone Lodge B&B, situated just off the A6 near Matlock Bath, has been given the green light to convert into a six-person House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). This decision has ignited a debate among residents and council members alike. And this is where the story gets intriguing...
The Giddy Edge Hiking Trail: A renowned path that clings to the edge of a cliff, some 300 feet above the valley, the Giddy Edge is not for the faint-hearted. With a safety rail as the only barrier between hikers and the sheer drop, it's no wonder it's dubbed one of the scariest footpaths in Derbyshire.
The B&B's Transformation: After being closed for a year, the former B&B, which has served travelers for an extensive period, will now cater to long-term tenants. The property, boasting six beds, will provide parking for three vehicles, accommodating the needs of its new occupants.
Local Concerns: Residents nearby have voiced their worries about the impact of this change. Emma Saxton, a local, highlighted the existing parking and traffic woes in the area, which she believes will be exacerbated by the HMO, especially on the already busy and constrained A6 road.
Adam Nash, another resident, pointed out the historical issues with HMOs in the vicinity, which have required police and council intervention. He emphasized the stark contrast between a B&B with constant supervision for short-term guests and an HMO with long-term unrelated tenants without permanent supervision.
Council's Perspective: Councillors, however, presented a different viewpoint. Cllr Matt Buckler, speaking on behalf of Cllr Nick Whitehead, acknowledged the delicate housing balance in Matlock Bath. He expressed concerns that another HMO could disrupt this balance, but also stated that the council was not resisting change outright.
Cllr David Hughes raised an intriguing point about the highways department's decision-making, questioning the safety of reversing onto the A6. He argued that this could be a potential hazard, especially given the department's requirement for forward-facing exits on a separate application.
Chris Dale, the council's development manager, agreed that parking would be an issue for both B&B and HMO uses. He also noted the presence of other HMOs in the area, but not enough to warrant a rejection based on cumulative impact.
The Need for Housing: Cllr Lucy Peacock emphasized the council's legal and moral obligations to provide housing, especially for young people. She described the proposed HMO as a much-needed and reasonably spacious option compared to others.
Cllr Peter Slack and Cllr Peter Dobbs highlighted the importance of catering to the housing needs of young people, particularly those without cars. They argued that the issue of parking might not be as significant as some believe, and that the focus should be on providing homes for young, single individuals, not holiday lets.
Controversy and Comment: The transformation of the Stone Lodge B&B into an HMO has sparked a lively discussion. While some residents express valid concerns about parking and the character of the area, others argue that the need for housing, especially for young people, is paramount. What do you think? Is the council's decision to approve the HMO a step towards addressing housing needs, or does it overlook the potential impact on the local community? Share your thoughts and let's continue the conversation!
