The Camden Council Planning Committee met on Thursday 7 August 2025, to discuss planning applications in the borough. The committee approved a procurement strategy for tree sponsorship, and a land swap in Enfield. Councillors also voted to grant conditional planning permission for the remodelling of 19 Charterhouse Street, and for a rear extension at Basement Flat 6 South Hill Park.

Here's a breakdown of the key discussions:

Major Building Works Contract

The committee approved the award of a five-year contract for major building works in the north of the borough to Milestone South East Limited, commencing 31 October 2024, for £7,492,928.77 (excluding VAT). The Executive Director Supporting Communities made the decision, following consultation with the Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Councillor Sagal Abdi-Wali. The contract is non-exclusive, allowing the council to use other contractors if Milestone South East Limited is at capacity or underperforming.

Land Swap in Enfield

The Leader of the Council approved a land swap transaction involving the acquisition of 21 Kynoch Road and the disposal of 8 Eley Road in Enfield. The council will acquire 21 Kynoch Road in exchange for 8 Eley Road at market value, and a further payment of £1.4 million to CCEP. The Head of Property has been authorised to finalise the details and instruct Legal Services to complete the transactions.

Tree Sponsorship Concession Contract

The committee approved the procurement strategy for a concession contract for tree sponsorship in the borough. The contract, valued at an estimated £450,000 per annum, involves calculating the social value of the council's tree population and marketing it to companies. Funds generated will be used for new tree planting. The initial contract is for 12 months, with potential extensions of two 12-month periods. The Director of Recreation approved the recommendations.

Planning Application: 19 Charterhouse Street

The committee voted to grant conditional planning permission for the remodelling, refurbishment, and extension of 19 Charterhouse Street, London EC1N 6RA, following referral to the Mayor of London, finalisation of condition wording with the Mayor, and completion of a Section 106 legal agreement¹. The proposal includes:

• Use Class E (commercial, retail/restaurant, and jewellery workspace)
• Landscaped amenity terraces and balconies
• Relocated entrances and commuter facilities
• On-site servicing yard and plant
• Associated highway improvements

The application was submitted by Farrview Ltd, with Newmark acting as the agent.

Key aspects of the discussion included:

• Land Use: The development aligns with Local Plan policies for economic growth and the Central Activities Zone, with 520 sqm (19%) of the additional floorspace designated for affordable jewellery workspace. The Inclusive Economy Team found the provision of affordable jewellery workspace at a peppercorn rate in perpetuity acceptable.
• Design: The proposals meet Local Plan policy D1 (Design) by respecting local context and character, incorporating high-quality materials, and improving movement and accessibility.
• Heritage: The development would result in 'less than substantial harm' to heritage assets, including the setting and appearance of the Grade II Listed building at 25 – 27 Farringdon Road and the Hatton Garden Conservation Area. However, this harm is outweighed by the public benefits, such as new employment floorspace, retail facilities, and affordable jewellery workspace.
• LVMF Views: The Greater London Authority (GLA) advised that while the proposal would marginally exceed the height of the Landmark Viewing Corridor, the breach would not be perceptible to the naked eye and raises no strategic urban design concerns.
• Sustainability: The development incorporates sustainable design and construction, with a commitment to carbon reduction measures and a carbon offset contribution.
• Transport: Subject to a Servicing & Delivery Management Plan, Construction Management Plan, and contributions to off-site cycling, highway works, and pedestrian improvements, the development would not prejudice transport infrastructure.
• Objections: Objections were raised by neighbouring occupiers regarding inadequate consultation, substantial demolition, the creation of a tall building in an inappropriate location, losses of sunlight and daylight, wind tunnel effects, excessive scale and massing, harm to heritage assets, highway and security impacts, excessive construction traffic, and a lack of public benefits.
• Support: A letter of support was received from Camden Enterprise Ltd, highlighting the provision of affordable jewellery workspace and alignment with Camden's economic and cultural strategies.

The committee also considered a supplementary information report and a deputation objecting to the application.

Planning Application: Basement Flat 6 South Hill Park

The committee voted to grant conditional planning permission for the demolition of an existing rear conservatory and erection of a single-storey rear extension at Basement Flat 6 South Hill Park, London NW3 2SB.

Key aspects of the discussion included:

• Design and Conservation: The extension preserves the character and appearance of the South Hill Park Conservation Area, with a revised design that reduces visual impact.
• Neighbouring Amenity: The development would not result in detrimental harm to residential amenity, with appropriate conditions to protect light, outlook, and privacy.
• Biodiversity and Landscaping: The landscaping scheme represents an improvement to the existing condition and will enhance on-site biodiversity.
• Objections: Objections were received regarding scale, loss of garden, biodiversity impacts, loss of light and outlook, and harm to the character of the Conservation Area.
• Support: Support was received from neighbouring households noting improvements to internal layout, health and ventilation, and quality of accommodation.

The committee considered written submissions from the applicant's agent and objecting neighbours, as well as a deputation objecting to the application from a local resident, Peter Graham. Councillor Linda Chung also spoke as Ward Councillor.