Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Information Only

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 18, 2025

Purpose:  This report proposes the adoption of new and updated design guidelines for mansard roof extensions and revised Character Appraisal and Management Plans (CAMPs) for five conservation areas in Bow: Clinton Road, Driffield Road, Medway Ropery Street and Tredegar Square. The design guidelines aim to address residents’ needs for additional living space while managing the impact on the historic environment. The guidelines offer clear principles to ensure high quality and consistent design, along with measures to mitigate potential harm to the conservation areas. The updated guidelines will harmonise the approach across the five areas, ensuring consistency in managing change. Updated CAMPs provide comprehensive guidance on maintaining the architectural and historic character of the areas amidst ongoing development.   A public consultation revealed support for the proposals, specifically, the benefits of enabling families to expand their homes, enhancing energy efficiency, and sustaining community cohesion. Concerns included the potential for visual harm to the conservation areas and challenges in enforcing compliance with planning conditions. The report considers the matters raised and makes an on balance recommendation that the guidelines and CAMPs should be approved.

Content: DECISION:   1.     To adopt the new guidelines for mansard roof extensions for Clinton Road, Ropery Street and Tredegar Square conservation areas.    2.     To adopt the updated guidelines for mansard roof extensions for Driffield Road and Medway conservation areas.    3.     To adopt the updated character appraisal and management plan documents for Clinton Road, Driffield Road, Medway, Ropery Street and Tredegar Square conservation areas.     4.     To authorise the Corporate Director for Housing and Regeneration to make any necessary factual or graphic design changes prior to publishing the final documents.   5.     To note the specific equalities considerations as set out in Paragraph 4.1 of the report.   Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR, HOUSING AND REGENERATION (D. JOYCE) Place Shaping Manager (M. Ritchie)