A former Chester pub could be converted into a nine-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

Plans have been submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council to convert the vacant Spital Vaults pub in Boughton into a nine-bedroom HMO.

According to the proposals, the property would feature a shared kitchen measuring more than 9 sq m to serve the nine residents, alongside a large open-plan communal living and dining area.

Shared bathroom facilities would be provided at a minimum ratio of one bathroom per five occupants, with private en-suite facilities included where the layout allows.

No large-scale extensions are proposed, although minor external works would be carried out. These include creating a new access point on elevation two by modifying an existing window opening.

All nine bedrooms would meet or exceed the statutory minimum size of 6.51 sq m for single adults, according to the plans. The application says the bedrooms have been designed to "ensure comfortable floor space, light penetration, and acoustic privacy".

It also states that general residential noise from the nine occupants would "remain comparable to a standard large family home".

Because of the property's proximity to Chester city centre, the applicant is proposing a car-free or low-car scheme. The plans say this would support sustainable development policies and reduce reliance on local street parking.

On-street parking is available on Spital Walk and Alma Street, while a small public car park with 10 spaces is located within 25 metres of the site on Alma Street, according to the application.

The design and access statement says the Spital Vaults ceased trading in August 2024 due to "long-term financial unviability" under its previous ownership.

It says the loss of the pub has "effectively been established" and that alternative local venues "exist nearby to serve the community".

The application argues that reusing the vacant building for housing would make better use of the existing brownfield site within the urban area.

If approved, the property would operate under a mandatory Large HMO Licence and be managed by a professional property firm.

The plans say a comprehensive management plan would cover tenant behaviour, property upkeep and provide a point of contact for neighbours.

The application states: "The development will provide high-quality, managed, and affordable coliving accommodation for young professionals and key workers."

You can find and comment on the application here.