The Planning Sub-Committee of Croydon Council met on Thursday, 22 February 2024, to consider two planning applications. Both applications, for developments at 31 Copthorne Rise and 60 Woodcote Valley Road, were granted permission. The committee also noted the weekly planning decisions made under delegated powers.

31 Copthorne Rise, South Croydon, CR2 9NN

Permission was granted for the demolition of a detached garage and the erection of a detached single-storey dwellinghouse with accommodation in the roof space at 31 Copthorne Rise. The development includes the creation of vehicular accesses and car parking spaces, as well as associated cycle and refuse storage.

The officer's report highlighted that significant amendments had been made since a previous refusal on this site, addressing concerns about overdevelopment, massing, and impact on neighbouring amenities. The retained garden for the host property had increased, and the distance between the new dwelling and the host property had also been increased. The height of the proposed development had been reduced, and the distance to properties opposite was considered sufficient. The site coverage was also reduced compared to the previously refused application.

During the deliberation, councillors noted that most objections from the previous scheme had been overcome. They acknowledged the need for a mix of properties in Croydon and that this development would contribute to that. While some concerns were raised regarding overlooking into the host and neighbouring properties, the application was deemed policy compliant. The proposed development was seen as addressing the housing need within the borough, and councillors appreciated the substantial changes made by the developers in response to feedback. The provision of an extensive garden for the host property was also noted positively.

60 Woodcote Valley Road, Purley, CR8 3BD

The committee granted permission for the demolition of the existing dwelling at 60 Woodcote Valley Road and the erection of five new dwellings. The development includes associated access, car parking, refuse storage, cycle parking, and private amenity spaces.

The officer's report indicated that the proposed development would provide a mix of family homes, with 2 x 3-bedroom and 3 x 4-bedroom units. The design was considered appropriate for the site and surrounding context, and there would be no undue harm to neighbouring residential amenities. The living standards for future occupiers were deemed acceptable, and the development was considered to have no adverse impact on the highway operation, subject to conditions. The replacement of two dead trees with nine new trees was also noted positively, as was the proposal for soft landscaping.

During the discussion, councillors expressed appreciation for the provision of family homes. They noted that the design was in keeping with other properties on Woodcote Valley Road. Concerns were raised about the potential for cars to be forced to park on the road due to the number of spaces provided on site, although adequate cycling storage was available. The side entrances for some properties were considered not ideal but did not detrimentally impact the overall design. The development was considered policy compliant and welcomed for providing additional family homes.

Weekly Planning Decisions

The committee noted the list of delegated and Planning Committee/Subcommittee decisions made between 29 January 2024 and 9 February 2024.