Councillor Gary Dillon, Chair of Planning, opened the meeting of the Local Planning Committee on 10 June 2025. The committee approved a temporary change of use for a cafe in Greenwich, and the construction of three new homes in Blackheath. A decision on a proposed house in multiple occupation (HMO) in Plumstead was approved with additional conditions, while a decision on an outbuilding in Blackheath was deferred for further information.

Here's a breakdown of the key discussions:

• Cafe Unit 1, Oswald Gardens, Greenwich The committee approved the temporary change of use of a cafe unit at 1 Oswald Gardens from a cafe to a sales and marketing suite for five years, or until 31 March 2030, whichever is later. Councillors Dillon, Mohamed and Greenwell were the only members who could vote on this item, as they were present at the previous meeting when it was discussed. Councillor Pat Greenwell asked about facilities for disabled people in the new facility. An officer clarified that the site was currently vacant and had never been occupied, and that a cafe/community use had been approved nearby at Plot 203.

• 76 Langton Way, Blackheath The committee approved the demolition of an existing detached dwelling and the construction of three three-bedroom houses at 76 Langton Way. The application had been deferred from a previous meeting for a site visit. Neil Willey, planning officer, presented the updated plans, noting that revisions had been made to accurately depict the location of the existing building in relation to its neighbours. Andrew Williams, a resident of 80 Langton Way, expressed concerns about the potential for overshadowing and overlooking, as well as increased parking issues. David Roulton, of 74 Langton Way, raised concerns about the suitability of three houses on the plot, arguing that it did not comply with the established pattern of development in the conservation area. Brian Stater, another local resident, agreed that the scheme was an overdevelopment of the site. Thomas Farmer, on behalf of the applicant, argued that the scheme was policy-compliant and offered an opportunity to deliver high-quality family homes.

  During the discussion, Councillor Greenwell raised concerns about parking and the proximity of the development to the Point of School, and asked if it was possible to limit each house to one parking space. The planning officer clarified that this could not be conditioned as Langton Way is a private road. Councillor Jo van den Broek asked about occupational therapists' requirements for accessible and adaptable dwellings[^1] and sought assurance that these could be met within the existing footprint. The committee approved the application, with Councillor Dillon noting that the houses were policy compliant. [^1]: Accessible and adaptable dwellings are designed to be easily used by a wide range of people, including those with mobility impairments.

• 47 Speranza Street, Plumstead This application for a change of use to a 5-bed, 5-person HMO, was withdrawn from the agenda because the required site visit could not be facilitated.

• 21 Donaldson Road, Plumstead This application for a change of use to a 5-bed, 5-person HMO, was withdrawn from the agenda because the site was incorrectly listed as being in Plumstead Common Ward, when it is actually in Shooters Hill Ward, which was subject to a by-election.

• 7 Thornhill Avenue, Plumstead The committee approved a change of use from a single-family dwelling to a six-bedroom HMO at 7 Thornhill Avenue, with additional conditions relating to bike and bin storage, and a management plan. Louise Macionis, planning officer, presented the application, noting that 14 objections had been received. Richard O'Connor, a resident of 6 Irwin Avenue, objected to the proposal, citing concerns about loss of family dwelling, over-concentration of HMOs, parking, and safety. He also raised concerns about a fire exit through a bedroom. Luke McBrattney, the planning consultant, said that his client was committed to addressing concerns about noise and waste.

  During the discussion, Councillor Jahdia Spencer expressed concern about the lack of consultation with local residents. Councillor Greenwell raised concerns about the proximity to Timbercroft Primary School. The committee added conditions relating to the relocation of bike storage to the front of the property, the provision of enclosed bin storage, and a management plan with a 24-hour emergency contact number for residents.

• 62 Corner Green, Blackheath The committee deferred a decision on the construction of an outbuilding at 62 Corner Green, pending further investigation into the potential impact on a protected tree and drainage. Neil Willey, planning officer, presented the application, noting that it had received three letters of support and seven letters of objection. Margaret Drummond, speaking on behalf of the Blackheath Society, requested a deferment for a tree root survey and raised concerns about the size of the building. Jackie Harold, of 2A Pond Road, also spoke in favour of a deferment, citing concerns about the impact on a 300-year-old plane tree. David Bowers, of 55 Blackheath Park, objected to the proposal, citing concerns about loss of amenity, the accuracy of the site plan, and the potential for the outbuilding to be used as a dwelling. Karen Neal, of 53A Blackheath Park, echoed concerns about the impact on the tree and the lack of a root survey.

  During the discussion, Councillor van den Broek asked about the definition of an outbuilding. Councillor Dillon expressed concern about the potential for damage to the tree roots. The committee voted to defer the application for further investigation into the tree roots and drainage.