The Planning Sub-Committee of Croydon Council met on Thursday, 21 March 2024, and resolved to grant planning permission for a new dwelling. The meeting focused on a single planning application.

Planning Application for Land at the Rear of 394-398 Coulsdon Road, Coulsdon, CR5 1EF

The committee granted planning permission for the construction of a three-bedroom detached dwelling in the rear gardens of 394 and 398 Coulsdon Road, with access from Lacey Avenue. This decision followed a review of the application, which had been revised from previous submissions that were refused.

During the discussion, councillors noted that the scheme had evolved and decreased in size. While some distances were considered tight, they were deemed acceptable. The current application was described as far more agreeable than previous iterations. It was also noted that the parking space at 394 Coulsdon Road was not lawful, so its loss would not be an issue. The developer was acknowledged for making steps to make the scheme more compliant, and the design was considered to be in keeping with the area.

The officer's report detailed that the proposed dwelling would be 7.1m in height at the ridge, 6.5m in width, and 9.5m in depth, with a 2.9m deep single-storey rear projection. These dimensions represented a reduction in height and massing compared to previous applications. The report also addressed concerns regarding the impact on neighbouring amenities, stating that the revised design would not cause undue harm through loss of light, outlook, or privacy. The principle of residential development on this site was considered acceptable, contributing to the borough's housing targets. The design was deemed appropriate for the site and surrounding context, and the quality of the proposed residential accommodation was found to meet national and London Plan standards.

The application had received 15 objections from neighbouring properties, raising concerns about overdevelopment, overlooking, loss of privacy, loss of light, noise pollution, insufficient parking, increased traffic congestion, and inadequate vehicular access. Objections were also raised regarding the impact on trees and ecology, and flood risk. The Old Coulsdon Residents Association also objected on grounds of overdevelopment, overlooking, a rear garden being too small, and the development not being in keeping with a village location.

The committee resolved to grant the application, with six members voting in favour. The decision was made subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement to secure a financial contribution of £1,500 towards sustainable travel improvements. Conditions were also imposed, including requirements for a construction logistics plan, drainage strategy, detailed design submissions, landscaping, biodiversity enhancement, and visibility splays. Permitted development rights for extensions were also removed.

The meeting was attended by Councillor Michael Neal (Chair), Councillor Clive Fraser (Vice-Chair), Councillors Simon Brew, Lara Fish, and Humayun Kabir. Councillors Ian Parker and Sean Fitzsimons sent their apologies. The meeting concluded at 8:23 pm.