The Planning Committee A of Lewisham Council met on Tuesday 20 January 2026 to discuss a planning application for a change of use at 1A Aylward Road, London, SE23 2JE. The committee resolved to grant planning permission for the change of use from a dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a residential institution (Class C2).

1A Aylward Road, London, SE23 2JE

The committee granted planning permission for a change of use at 1A Aylward Road, London, SE23 2JE, from a dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a residential institution (Class C2). The property will operate as an assessment centre for vulnerable young people and their children, providing shelter for up to 12 weeks. No physical external or internal changes are proposed for the three-storey detached dwelling.

The decision was made after officers presented the application, highlighting that the proposal meets an identified need within the borough for specialist and supported accommodation. Lewisham's Children and Young People Service confirmed a significant shortfall in residential provision, and the Southeast London Strategic Housing Market Assessment identified a local need for family-sized dwellings. The application was called in by Councillor John Paschoud.

During the discussion, Councillor Stephen Penfold raised questions about the proposed occupancy, noting that the change would increase the number of occupants from up to six under the current C3(b) lawful use to up to ten residents plus staff. Officers confirmed that the property's internal floor space of approximately 256 square metres is considered sufficient for this occupancy level, and conditions would be recommended to cap resident numbers.

Concerns were raised by objectors regarding potential anti-social behaviour and increased noise and disturbance due to staff shift changes. However, officers stated that these concerns were not substantiated by evidence and that the structured shift patterns would limit disturbance. Highways officers raised no objection to the scheme.

The committee also discussed the provision of cycle and refuse storage, with officers recommending that details for secure and covered cycle storage and adequate refuse and recycling facilities be secured by condition. The application was granted with conditions relating to the time limit for commencement, adherence to approved plans, provision of cycle storage, and details of refuse and recycling storage. A condition was also imposed to restrict the occupancy to no more than 10 full-time residents at any given time.

Councillor Luke Warner expressed his support for the application, stating, I'm very happy to support and, uh, propose. I think that I've been completely convinced by the officer's points. I don't think there's anything particularly in doubt here. I also think it's vital that we make sure we have sufficient housing available for vulnerable mothers and their families. So I'm happy to support. The application was granted with conditions.