The Planning Applications Committee of Kensington and Chelsea Council met on Tuesday 28 April 2026 and granted planning permission for a temporary change of use at Cremorne Wharf Depot Foreshore. The committee approved the transformation of the safeguarded wharf from a waste use to a public open space for a period of five years.

Cremorne Wharf Depot Foreshore - Change of Use to Public Open Space

The committee granted planning permission for a time-limited change of use at Cremorne Wharf Depot Foreshore, located on Lots Road, London, SW10. The application sought to convert the safeguarded wharf, previously used for waste management and more recently for the Thames Tideway Tunnel project, into a public open space for up to five years.

The proposal includes the creation of distinct zones for play, informal sports, and social areas, with movable structures, planting, and seating. A key aspect of the development is the creation of a new pedestrian link to the Thames Path by demolishing part of the western boundary wall. The existing concrete surface will be retained and painted to delineate different areas.

Concerns were raised by the Port of London Authority (PLA) regarding the safeguarded status of the wharf and its future use for waterborne freight handling. To address these concerns, officers recommended conditions for a temporary five-year permission and a requirement for a method statement detailing how the site would be reinstated for wharf use. A pending legal agreement will also ensure that access for Thames Water remains achievable and facilitate the future reactivation of the wharf for freight handling.

During the discussion, councillors sought clarification on various aspects of the proposal. Councillor Walaa Idris asked about the planting, noting that trees would be in planters due to restrictions from the Thames Tideway Tunnel. The officer confirmed this and explained that while the current site is hardstanding, the proposal aims for a biodiversity net gain of 10% through a biodiversity net gain plan, with bird boxes planned as habitat enhancement. Councillor Idris also inquired about the imported soils and biodiversity standards, receiving reassurance that these had been reviewed by ecologists.

Councillor Lloyd North, also a member of the committee, questioned the robustness of the consultation with local residents. The officer confirmed that the council's parks team had engaged extensively with local stakeholders and residents, and while statutory notices were posted, no public comments were received.

The committee voted to grant planning permission, subject to the recommended conditions and the completion of a legal agreement. This decision aligns with Local Plan Policy GB15, which encourages a meanwhile open space at this site until it is brought back into wharf use. The temporary nature of the development, coupled with the conditions for reinstatement, ensures that the long-term function of the safeguarded wharf is not prejudiced, in line with London Plan Policy SI14.

The decision was made following a report by Alice Culver, Team Leader of Strategic Developments, who presented the application to the committee. Councillor James Husband, Chair of the Planning Applications Committee, presided over the meeting.