The Planning Committee of Sutton Council met on 10 June 2026 to discuss several planning applications. Key decisions included the refusal of a proposed bin and cycle store development at Jengar Close due to concerns about residential amenity, and the approval of a change of use application for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 5 Gainsborough Terrace. The committee also refused an application for a rear extension at 33-35 The Broadway, Cheam, citing concerns about its impact on the conservation area and housing mix.

Refusal of Bin and Cycle Store at Jengar Close

The committee refused an application for the erection of refuse and cycle stores at 1-24 Jengar Close, Sutton. Despite officers recommending approval, the committee sided with the overwhelming objections from residents. The primary concern was the proposed location of the bin store, which objectors argued was too close to residential windows and entrances, raising issues of noise, smell, and potential pest infestation. Residents also highlighted that the existing bin storage was sufficient and that the proposal seemed linked to a previously rejected application for additional floors on the blocks. Councillor Richard Choy, the ward councillor, supported the residents' concerns, emphasizing the negative impact on the quality of life for those living at Jengar Close. The committee agreed to refuse the application, citing the adverse effect on residential amenity due to the bin store's proximity, nature, size, and location, contrary to Policy 29 of the Sutton Local Plan.

Approval of HMO at 5 Gainsborough Terrace

In contrast, the committee approved the retention of a change of use from a residential dwelling to a Class C4 small House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 5 Gainsborough Terrace, Manor Road, Cheam. This decision was made despite receiving over 10 objections. Officers recommended approval, noting that the property had not undergone any external alterations and that existing residents had not raised any complaints regarding noise or anti-social behaviour. Councillors acknowledged the need for HMOs to meet housing demands and affordability. While concerns were raised about the potential for increased parking pressure and the proximity to another HMO, the committee ultimately found no planning grounds to refuse the application, citing the lack of external changes and the absence of documented negative impacts.

Refusal of Rear Extension at 33-35 The Broadway, Cheam

An application for a part one, part two-storey rear extension, dormer extension, and alterations to fenestrations at 33-35 The Broadway, Cheam, was refused. Officers had recommended refusal due to concerns about the development's impact on the Cheam Village Conservation Area, residential amenity, and the proposed housing mix. Councillors agreed with these concerns, highlighting the excessive bulk and height of the proposed extension, which they felt would be overbearing and detrimental to the character of the conservation area. The lack of three-bedroom units or two-bedroom, four-person units was also cited as a reason for refusal, contrary to Policy 9 of the Sutton Local Plan. Objectors from Parkside and Park Lane also raised concerns about overlooking, loss of privacy, and the impact of the development on their properties due to land level changes.

Approval of Specialist Care Facility at 10A Park Hill Road, Wallington

The committee granted planning permission for a change of use from a three-bedroom residential flat to a three-room specialist care facility for patients requiring home mechanical ventilation at 10A Park Hill Road, Wallington. This decision was made despite over 30 objections. Officers recommended approval, highlighting the identified need for such a facility and its sustainable location. Concerns raised by residents regarding noise from medical plant equipment were addressed by the applicant's amended proposal to use an electric battery UPS system instead of a diesel generator, along with acoustic mitigation measures. Environmental Health raised no objections subject to these measures being implemented. The committee noted the specialist nature of the care home and its small scale, concluding it would integrate well into the residential setting without causing unacceptable impacts on highway safety or residential amenity.

Other Business

The committee also confirmed the minutes of the previous meeting held on 4 February 2026. There were no urgent business items raised.