New parking for an HMO in Calderdale could disturb graves and memorials – though there are no plans to exhume bodies, according to developers.

The proposal would provide parking for a recently approved 32-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) at Sugden Hall in Bridge End, Brighouse, with plans for hardstanding and the removal of two trees on land associated with a former chapel graveyard.

The application by Lark Architects says the plan would mean “minimise disturbance” to the graves, monuments, and memorial stones, and would be done with advice from the West Yorkshire Archaeological Advisory Service.

Local archives say the Bridge End Chapel opened in 1856 and closed for worship in 1976, with parts of the burial ground subsequently converted to a car park with the gravestones laid face down beneath tarmac.

Records of that work cited 163 gravestones and around 604 named people.

But Lark Architects have assured: “If human remains, coffin fittings, vaults or previously unrecorded memorials are encountered, works in that area will stop immediately, the area will be protected and the appropriate authorities will be contacted.”

The new proposal would create a parking and manoeuvring area for residents of the approved HMO while retaining access to a neighbouring nursery.

Lark say the scheme would reduce pressure on surrounding streets and improve management of the burial ground.

A planning statement from developers for the Sugden Hall HMO in August 2023 said “the design-led interior will attract good quality tenants” while promising “references and background checks” on prospective residents.

Calderdale Council’s May 2024 decision notice on the HMO said the development should not start until the car park has been provided.

A decision on the application will be made by the council.