The Planning and Development Control Committee of Hammersmith and Fulham Council met on Tuesday 17 October 2023 to discuss a detailed planning application for the redevelopment of 92 Wood Lane. The committee approved the application, which will see the construction of 216 student rooms and commercial floor space.

Redevelopment of 92 Wood Lane

The committee approved the detailed planning application for the redevelopment of 92 Wood Lane, a site owned by Imperial College London. The approved plans will deliver 216 student rooms, with 35% designated as affordable student accommodation, and commercial floor space on the ground floor. The building will range from three to twelve storeys in height.

During the meeting, concerns were raised by local residents and the Hammersfield Society regarding the scale of the development, perceived overbuilding, and a lack of engagement from Imperial College London. Specific issues highlighted included the fulfillment of promises made in the original masterplan, such as the delivery of a green square, a cycle route under the Westway, and an underpass connecting to North Kensington. Residents also expressed concerns about the increased number of students, changes in ground floor use, and the loss of greenery.

Imperial College London, represented by Catherine Fieldgate, stated that the proposal aims to address the shortage of safe and secure student accommodation in London and create a vibrant innovation district. They highlighted that the development includes a significant proportion of affordable student rooms and accessible units. Imperial College also committed to finalizing plans for the central square and opening it as a green space for public enjoyment.

Councillor Wesley Harcourt, whose ward includes the application site, raised concerns about the impact of tall buildings on residents' ability to install solar panels, referencing the council's climate emergency policy. Officers responded that the scheme had been assessed for daylight, sunlight, and overshadowing impacts and was considered acceptable, with no adverse impacts on neighbouring properties identified.

Questions were also raised about Imperial College London's role as a commercial enterprise. Officers explained that the development of student accommodation is not unusual for large institutions and that this particular application includes a requirement for 35% affordable student accommodation, differentiating it from other developments.

The committee discussed the Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) rating for the site, noting a discrepancy between a manual assessment of 6A and a London Transport assessment of 2. Officers explained that while the immediate site has a PTAL of 2, the wider campus has a PTAL of 6, and a manual assessment is being conducted to account for proximity to public transport.

Concerns were also voiced regarding the provision of charging facilities for e-bikes and e-scooters within the student accommodation, particularly in relation to fire safety. Officers agreed to discuss this further with Imperial College London to ensure adequate provision and management plans are in place.

The committee also debated the reduction in communal space within the building, with officers confirming that students would have access to communal facilities within the adjacent Grad Pad building and that the provided two square meters per resident was deemed acceptable by the Greater London Authority (GLA).

Finally, the committee voted to approve the application, with all councillors present voting in favour of both recommendations.