A Runcorn bar could be turned into a controversial shared accommodation scheme, despite the fears of Halton Council's own experts that it could lead to antisocial behaviour.

Council planning chiefs are recommended to approve plans by London-based Penn Investments to convert Bridge View Sports Bar on High Street into a house in multiple occupation (HMO) with 17-bedrooms.

The rooms themselves would be en suite but there would be two shared kitchens, along with a TV room, internal bike store and communal dining/seating and kitchen area.  Each room would be a minimum of 15 sq m.

The three-storey building is currently used as a function room and bar at ground level with bed and breakfast accommodation on the upper floors. Plans were originally submitted late last year for a 20 room HMO, but following discussions with Halton council planning officers the number has been reduced to 17.

HMOs – properties with share facilities such as kitchens – have proven controversial nationally and in Halton, with one borough planning chief previously likening them to ‘Victorian Slums’.

But backers of HMOs say they are a vital source of housing for people who may not be able to afford more expensive accommodation.

Halton's development management committee rejected plans for one in Widnes last year following strong local opposition. The council also later established a working party to examine the issue, and is understood to be eyeing up applying for new powers which would allow it to block them altogether.

In a written submission to a report due to be considered by the committee when it meets on Monday, Halton’s own town centre regeneration team, said: “We believe that an open to market 20 HMO property cannot be managed properly and leads to anti-social behaviour.”

Mersey and Weston councillor Norman Plumpton Walsh has also objected, he said: “As much as I understand that people need housing, the answer is not Demi Victorian era mass housing with demographic problems that could create, or perpetuate. And it is not the answer within a town centre we are working hard to regenerate."

But Halton’s planning department is recommending approval on planning grounds. In a report to the committee, it said: “The proposed development will provide residential accommodation in a sustainable location. It also has the potential for securing use of what may otherwise become a vacant building.

"The applicant has amended the scheme resulting in a reduction in units, improved accommodation prevision for future residents and addressing issues relating to amenity space provision, cycle and bin storage and accessibility arrangements.”