We like our student neighbours!
LIVING NEXT TO A HMO IS NOT SO BAD, SAY RESIDENTS IN ONE BEESTON STREET
NEIGHBOURS in a Beeston street say they love living among students, describing them as “helpful” and “looking out” for other residents.
Houses in multiple occupation (HMOS) divide opinion, as some say they take away family homes and a sense of community from an area, and create problems with parking and waste collection.
Fletcher Road, in Beeston, with its close proximity to the university, has more HMOS than many other roads in the town.
But some residents there say living among student houses is enjoyable, despite occasional parties and other incidents.
Pat Parks, 70, said: “There was a bit of loud music played down here where we live and the odd party, but it didn’t happen for long and they have spoken to neighbours affected and apologised for what happened.
“In the houses where students live, they’ve always been helpful and have looked out for their neighbours.
“If they go over the top, we tell them, and they respect that. The influx of students is bigger than ever, but if they’re all like the ones around here, then it’s OK, I’m fine with that.”
Husband Pete Parks, also 70, said: “We’ve got no problem with students living around here. There hasn’t been any anti-social behaviour or anything like that.
“We’ve been here for 35 years when every home was a family home.
“But the fact we’ve stayed here that long tells you everything you need to know.”
Michael Fish, 79, said: “I’ve not heard of any problems around here. There are quite a lot of students around, but they do not cause me any trouble.
“There is the odd house you pass that has music on, but not immediately around here.”
Janet Bond, 63, said: “I’ve not had any problems, I must say. It’s a really nice area around here, a lot of the houses are HMOS. Neighbours have said about balls going into their garden, but that’s about it.”
But one resident got in touch with the Post to say they had experienced students living in a HMO at the back of their property and kicking footballs against their fence, shouting, foul language, playing loud music and having parties.