The Planning Sub-Committee of Croydon Council met on Thursday, 7 March 2024, to consider planning applications. The committee granted permission for a retrospective planning application at 30a Gibson's Hill, Norbury, SW16 3JP, for a single-storey rear extension and alterations to the main roof. The committee also received a report on weekly planning decisions for information.

Planning Application at 30a Gibson's Hill, Norbury, SW16 3JP

The committee granted planning permission for the retrospective application at 30a Gibson's Hill, Norbury, SW16 3JP, which involved the erection of a single-storey rear extension and alterations to the main roof, including the installation of roof windows.

During the discussion, officers clarified that the original planning permission for the dwelling included the access road, meaning there was an existing permission for its use by vehicles. They also explained that it would be unreasonable to impose a condition for the development to be car-free, given the nature of the application. The access road was noted to be 3.2 metres wide, though currently narrowed by foliage, and had sufficient space for a small vehicle to turn. The application specifically concerned the land to the southwest of the site, with the northeast portion having been sold to a third party. The committee heard that the site had been granted consent for vehicle use in 1957. A plan to use the access road for refuse storage on bin collection days was also mentioned.

Objectors raised concerns about the development, while supporters spoke in favour. The sub-committee deliberated on several points, including the visibility of the development from the road, the minimal increase in height, and concerns about the access road. Despite reservations about the practicality of refuse bin storage on the access road and the management of foliage, officers advised that the access road itself could not be a reason for refusal.

Councillor Ian Parker proposed, and Councillor Lara Fish seconded, the motion to grant the application based on the officer's recommendation. The motion was carried with five members voting in favour and one against.

Weekly Planning Decisions

The committee received a report detailing planning decisions made under delegated powers between 12 February 2024 and 23 February 2024. This report was noted for information.