The Planning Committee of Waltham Forest Council met on Tuesday, 2 April 2024, to consider two planning applications. The committee granted planning permission for developments at 55 Mount Echo Avenue and 7 Burghley Road, subject to conditions and legal agreements.

55 Mount Echo Avenue (230402)

Planning permission was granted for the demolition of a single dwelling house and ancillary garages at 55 Mount Echo Avenue, Chingford, London, E4 7JX[^1], to be replaced by two new buildings providing nine residential units. The development will consist of 4 three-bedroom flats, 3 two-bedroom flats, and 2 one-bedroom houses, with associated parking, cycle parking, refuse storage, and landscaping.

The decision was made subject to a Section 106 Legal Agreement (S106) which includes provisions for highway works, a contribution towards sustainable transport, and monitoring fees. The agreement also stipulates that the development will be car-free, meaning residents will not be eligible for parking permits. A financial contribution will be made towards the Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for Strategic Access Management and Monitoring (SAMM). Conditions were also updated regarding privacy screening for balconies and the communal roof amenity area, and the inclusion of planters in the landscaping scheme.

During the meeting, concerns were raised by the Council's Design Team regarding the loss of a non-designated heritage asset (the existing mock Tudor dwelling). However, officers concluded that the public benefits of the scheme, including the provision of high-quality family-sized homes and a high standard of design and landscaping, outweighed the harm. The development was considered to be of appropriate scale, size, and design, responding well to the surrounding urban form and character.

Objections were received from local residents concerning the principle of development, design, overdevelopment, and amenity impacts. However, officers addressed these concerns, stating that the proposed quantum of development was appropriate for the plot size and that the design responded positively to the wider character of the area. The proposal was found to meet internal and external space standards, and impacts on neighbouring amenity, including overlooking and overshadowing, were considered to be minimised.

The development will also contribute to the Council's housing supply targets, with a focus on providing family-sized accommodation. Conditions were imposed to ensure sustainable design, including a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions and water efficiency measures.

7 Burghley Road (233078)

Planning permission was granted for the construction of a single-storey wraparound rear extension and the installation of external wall insulation to the existing first-floor rear outrigger at 7 Burghley Road, Leytonstone, London, E11 4QP. A replacement window at ground floor level was also approved.

The application was referred to the committee because the applicant is related to employees of the Council. The proposed extension was reduced in depth during the application process to address concerns about its impact on the neighbouring property at number 9 Burghley Road.

Officers concluded that the development would not harm the character and appearance of the host property or the surrounding area, nor would it create adverse impacts on neighbouring amenity or the Archaeological Priority Area. The extension was considered a harmonious and subordinate addition to the property, respecting the character of the surrounding residential street. The external wall insulation was supported as a measure to improve the property's energy efficiency. No objections were received from local residents during the consultation period.

The decision was made subject to standard conditions and informatives, including a time limit for commencement and adherence to approved plans and materials. The roof area of the development was specifically restricted from being used as a balcony, roof garden, or sitting out area to preserve the privacy and amenities of adjacent property occupiers.