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A move to build a new HMO in Smethwick High Street has been thrown out by councillors.

The plan to open the 11-bed house of multiple occupation (HMO) above Viney’s Opticians in Smethwick High Street was rejected by Sandwell Council’s planning committee amid a warning allowing the shared accommodation was turning parts of the borough into slums.

Residents and local councillors said Smethwick High Street was already suffering from overflowing bins, fly-tipping, rats and other vermin and blocked drains from several takeaways along the busy route.

The plans were scaled down from initial proposals for a 20-bed HMO submitted earlier this year and Sandwell Council’s planners had recommended the scheme was approved ahead of the meeting on November 26.

The HMO plans were condemn

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