The Planning Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council met on Wednesday 9 February 2022, where they discussed and made decisions on two significant planning applications. The committee resolved to delegate the approval of an application for Harrodian School, subject to conditions, and also authorised the granting of planning permission for Kings House School, contingent on the satisfactory completion of an undertaking.

Harrodian School, Lonsdale Road, Barnes, SW13 9QN

The committee considered an application for development at Harrodian School in Barnes. Following presentations from objectors and the applicant's architect, Max Dewdney, the committee discussed the potential impact on neighbouring properties. While some members felt the cumulative impact was unreasonable, others acknowledged an impact but deemed it not overbearing, noting existing noise levels and minimal overlooking from the proposed development. Significant weight was given to the improved sporting facilities, which would benefit the school and reduce the need for offsite travel, and the provision of separate changing rooms to encourage girls' participation in sport. The environmental aspects were considered acceptable. Ultimately, a majority of the committee concluded that very special circumstances had been demonstrated and resolved to delegate the approval of the application to the Assistant Director, Environment and Community Services (Planning & Transport). This approval is subject to conditions and informatives outlined in the report, including specific requirements for mechanical services noise control, a maintenance schedule, and acoustic testing. Additionally, a Section 106 legal agreement must be completed to secure the terms set out in the report.

Kings House School, 66-68 Kings Road, Richmond, TW10 6ES

An application for development at Kings House School in Richmond was also discussed. The committee heard representations from residents' associations, neighbours, and consultants, as well as from the applicant's architect, David Miller, consultant Andy Pringle, and the applicant, Mark Turner. The application was viewed as appropriate and beneficial to the school system, particularly in enhancing accessibility for staff and students with mobility issues. Members debated whether the scale and mass concerns from a previous application had been adequately addressed, with differing opinions expressed. However, on balance, the committee felt the design was sympathetic to the conservation area and resolved to authorise the Assistant Director (Planning & Transport Strategy) to grant planning permission. This decision is conditional upon the satisfactory completion of an undertaking to secure obligations related to tree mitigation, as detailed in the report. If this undertaking is not completed, the permission will be refused on the grounds that the development would not be accompanied by the necessary tree mitigation. An additional informative regarding off-site trees on conservation areas was also suggested.