The Planning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 23 January 2024, was set to discuss several significant planning applications, including proposals for a self-storage facility in Eltham, purpose-built student accommodation on the Greenwich Peninsula, and the restoration and change of use of the Grade II listed Plumstead Power Station. Additionally, the board was scheduled to consider plans for new residential units on Herbert Road.

Former Wellington House, Messeter Place, Eltham, SE9 5DP - Ref: 23/2356/F

The board was scheduled to consider a request for full planning permission to construct a self-storage facility, designated as Use Class B8, alongside flexible office space (Use Class E(g)(i)). The proposal also included associated vehicle access, a service bay, car parking, and cycle parking. The site, formerly Wellington House, is located in the Eltham Town Centre, identified as a Strategic Area for Regeneration within the London Plan (2021). Concerns raised by local residents and amenity societies regarding the design, scale, materials, and potential overshadowing were to be discussed, alongside the heritage impact on the nearby Eltham Fire Station. The report indicated that officers recommended approval, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 legal agreement.

Plot N0201, Peninsula Square, Greenwich, SE10 0DX - Ref: 23/2150/F

A proposal for the construction of a 36-storey building comprising Purpose Built Student Accommodation with ancillary amenity space (Sui Generis) was scheduled for discussion. The development also included ground-floor commercial/retail floorspace (Use Class E), along with associated landscaping, plant, servicing, and cycle parking. The site is located on the Greenwich Peninsula, adjacent to The O2 Arena. The application was to be referred to the Mayor of London due to its scale and location. The report highlighted that 35% of the 820 student bedrooms would be affordable, and a nominations agreement with higher education institutions would be secured. The design, scale, and integration with the existing and emerging development on the Greenwich Peninsula were key considerations, with officers recommending approval subject to conditions and a Section 106 legal agreement.

Plumstead Power Station (also known as White Hart Depot), White Hart Road and White Hart Avenue, Plumstead, SE18 - Ref 23/2425/F & 23/2426/L

The board was to consider a request for full planning permission and associated listed building consent for the phased restoration and alterations of the Grade II listed former power station. The proposal involved a change of use to a Sui Generis Use, intended to function as a virtual film and TV production hub, office space, and a research and development element, with associated ancillary space. The building, formerly a refuse incinerator and electricity generating station, has more recently been used as a council depot. The report indicated that while the proposal would cause less than substantial harm to the listed building, this was considered to be outweighed by public benefits, notably bringing the building back into use. Officers recommended approval, subject to conditions and a Section 106 legal agreement.

Public toilets and adjacent land at Herbert Road, north of Mayplace Lane and Acworth House, London, SE18 3BD - Ref: 23/0648/F

Plans for the demolition of existing temporary buildings and public toilets were scheduled for review, with a proposal for redevelopment to construct a new part four-storey/part six-storey building providing 24 residential units (Use Class C3). All proposed units were designated as affordable housing for social rent. The site is located in a residential area, and the design was considered acceptable, with no significant impact anticipated on neighbouring amenities. The development was noted to exceed carbon saving requirements and would contribute to the Council's carbon offset fund. Officers recommended approval, subject to conditions and the prior completion of a Director's Agreement.