The Development and Planning Applications Committee of Merton Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday 18 June 2026. The committee's agenda includes discussions on several planning applications, a proposed Article 4 Direction concerning Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), and the confirmation of minutes from a previous meeting.

Planning Applications to be Discussed

The committee is scheduled to consider three planning applications. The most significant of these is the proposal for 70 Christchurch Road, Colliers Wood, SW19 2PB¹. The application seeks planning permission to demolish the existing building and erect a new five-storey development comprising two commercial units on the ground floor and nine self-contained apartments above. The recommendation is to grant planning permission, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement.

Another key item is the application for 39 Florence Avenue, Morden, SM4 6EX². This proposal involves the demolition of the existing bungalow to provide two new three-bedroom semi-detached dwellings. The recommendation is to grant planning permission, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement.

Finally, the committee will review the application for Raynes Park Sports Ground, Taunton Avenue, Raynes Park³. This application seeks permission for the installation of all-weather sports facilities, including a synthetic turf hockey pitch with fencing and floodlights, four covered and floodlit padel courts, three artificial cricket wickets, and a no-dig woodland path. The recommendation is to grant permission, subject to conditions and a Section 106 legal agreement that would secure financial contributions for access improvements, consultation on Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) operation hours, and the provision of a cycle hire parking bay.

Article 4 Direction for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

A significant policy matter to be discussed is the confirmation of an immediate Article 4 Direction for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in 13 wards across Merton. This direction, which began on 24 March 2026, requires planning permission for all new HMOs in these areas. The committee is asked to note the progress of the public consultation, which ran from 8 May to 19 June 2026, and to advise Cabinet and the full Council on whether to confirm the direction, making it permanent. The report highlights the potential for compensation claims from developers and landowners if the direction is confirmed and planning permission is subsequently refused or conditioned.

Previous Meeting Minutes

The committee will also consider the minutes of the previous meeting held on 27 November 2025.