The Planning Committee B of Lewisham Council met on Tuesday 26 November 2024 to discuss planning applications. The committee confirmed the minutes from previous meetings and granted planning permission for two separate developments.

60 Lowther Hill, SE23 1PY - DC/24/136606

The committee granted planning permission for the demolition of an existing house at 60 Lowther Hill, SE23, and the construction of a four-storey building to provide seven self-contained flats. This decision followed several previous refusals for developments on the site, with the primary concern in the most recent refusal being the impact on the amenity of neighbouring properties at Nos. 58 and 62 Lowther Hill due to outlook and light. The applicant has addressed these concerns by redesigning the scheme to reduce its depth and massing at the rear and has provided an updated daylight and sunlight report. The new design also features a more traditional pitched roof, responding to local character and feedback.

Concerns were raised by a resident at 58 Lowther Hill regarding overdevelopment, density, and the impact on parking, waste, sewage, and drainage. Officers clarified that density is not a primary planning consideration and that a construction logistics plan would be secured by condition to minimise disruption. A sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) strategy will also be secured by condition, and Thames Water has advised on drainage matters. The committee unanimously resolved to grant planning permission, subject to the completion of a unilateral undertaking.

126 New Cross Road, London, SE14 5BA - DC/24/136844

The committee granted part retrospective planning permission for alterations and the conversion of the existing building at 126 New Cross Road, SE14, including the construction of a roof extension to create a 14-room House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The proposal also includes internal courtyards, a new timber shopfront, and the installation of new windows and rooflights. This application is a modification of a previously approved scheme for an 11-room HMO.

The main considerations for this application included the principle of development, housing contribution, urban design and heritage impact, transport, and living conditions of neighbours. The site is located within the Hatcham Conservation Area, and the proposed mansard-style roof extension was amended to be more sympathetic to the historic character of the terrace. The proposal also includes the restoration of a traditional timber shopfront and sash windows. Concerns were raised by Councillor Luke Sorba regarding the density and quality of the accommodation, leading to the application being called in for committee consideration. The committee heard from the applicant's agent regarding the room configurations, bathroom provisions, and the design of the mansard extension. The committee resolved to grant planning permission with conditions, including those related to sound insulation, materials, shopfront details, refuse and cycle storage, and obscure glazing for ground-floor windows.