The Planning Committee of Harrow Council met on Wednesday 17 January 2024, granting permission for alterations to a listed building and for the creation of temporary classrooms at a local school. The meeting, chaired by Councillor Marilyn Ashton, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Planning & Regeneration, saw unanimous approval for both planning applications discussed.

War Memorial & Old Harrovian Room - P/2736/23

The committee unanimously granted Listed Building Consent for alterations to two casement windows at the War Memorial & Old Harrovian Room on High Street, Harrow on the Hill. The proposal involves the insertion of commemorative stained glass in honour of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, matching the style and colouring of existing designs within the Alex Fitch Room. The decision was made in accordance with national and local planning policies, including the London Plan policy HC1 and Harrow's Development Management Policies Local Plan policy DM7, which aim to preserve the special architectural or historic interest of listed buildings. The works will be carried out using traditional methods by specialist stained glass makers, and conditions have been imposed to protect interior features and ensure new works match existing materials.

Park High School, Thistlecroft Gardens Stanmore - PL/0456/23

Planning permission was unanimously granted for the creation of three temporary classrooms at Park High School, located on Thistlecroft Gardens in Stanmore. This development is intended to replace eight existing modular classrooms that are no longer safe for use. The proposal involves the construction of three classrooms, each approximately 9.3 metres deep and 7.7 metres wide, and six freestanding toilets. The classrooms will be constructed from shipping containers painted blue to match school colours. Officers noted that while this would result in the loss of some open space between the sports hall and the main school building, this area does not serve as a play area and its loss would not result in a net loss of children's play space. The temporary nature of the classrooms means the land can be restored to its former condition after three years. The decision aligns with policies from the National Planning Policy Framework, the London Plan, and Harrow's Core Strategy and Development Management Policies Local Plan, which support educational facilities and ensure development does not unduly harm residential amenity or highway safety. Councillor Marilyn Ashton declared a non-pecuniary interest in this item due to her previous role as a Governor of the school but remained in the room during the discussion and vote.