The Planning Committee of Barking and Dagenham Council met on Tuesday 10 September 2024 to discuss a planning application for a property on Hainault Gore and receive an update on the Local Plan. The committee approved the planning application for 1 Hainault Gore, which will see the property subdivided and extended to create five new residential units.

1 Hainault Gore, Chadwell Heath, Romford, RM6 6RR - 24/00269/FULL

The committee resolved to grant planning permission for the sub-division of the existing dwelling at 1 Hainault Gore¹ into five residential units. This involves a two-storey side extension, a part first-floor rear extension, and the change of use of an ancillary garage into a dwelling. The proposal will result in a net increase of four housing units, contributing to the borough's housing targets.

While the development will result in the loss of a large family-sized dwelling, officers noted that a three-bedroom family home would be re-provided, meaning no net loss of family-sized units. The quality of accommodation for all proposed flats was deemed acceptable, meeting national space standards² and providing adequate daylight, sunlight, and ventilation. Each flat will also have its own private external amenity space, complying with both London Plan and local policy requirements.

The design of the development was considered to reflect the character of the existing semi-detached Victorian villa-style home³, with the side extension designed to mimic its architectural features. Although the use of render for the rear extension was noted as less preferable than brick, its location meant it would not be significantly visible. The conversion of the garage was also deemed acceptable in terms of scale and siting.

Concerns raised by neighbouring residents regarding parking, privacy, daylight, overshadowing, and noise were addressed. Officers concluded that the proposed four off-street parking spaces, along with the limited impact on the private road, would not create significant harm. The design setbacks and lack of windows facing neighbouring properties were considered to mitigate privacy and daylight concerns. While acknowledging an increase in occupants, the development was not expected to result in harmful levels of noise or disturbance.

The proposal includes provision for eight cycle parking spaces for four flats and two for the fifth, meeting London Plan standards. Refuse and recycling storage arrangements were also deemed acceptable. A Construction Logistics Plan⁴ will be a condition of approval due to the narrowness of Hainault Gore. Landscaping will be implemented as per the approved plans.

The committee agreed with the reasons for approval as set out in the report and delegated authority to the Director of Inclusive Growth (or authorised Officer) to grant planning permission subject to the conditions listed in Appendix 5 of the report.

Progress Report on the Local Plan

Jen Belford, Planning Policy Manager for Be First, provided an update on the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham's 2037 Local Plan. The Inspectors' Report was received on 15 August 2024, concluding the examination process. The Inspectors found the policies to be sound, subject to the inclusion of Main Modifications. The Local Plan, as amended, was scheduled to be presented to Cabinet and Assembly for adoption later in the month. The Chair, Councillor Muhammad Saleem, thanked Jen Belford, Tim Thomas, and other officers for their work on this very important document.