The Planning Committee of Bexley Council was scheduled to discuss three planning applications for development. These included a retrospective application for a change of use to a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and a rear extension, the erection of four padel courts at a sports centre, and the construction of a new dwelling with a rear extension.

22 Stanhope Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA15 7HA

The committee was scheduled to consider a retrospective application for the change of use of a six-bedroom dwelling at 22 Stanhope Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA15 7HA, from a single family home (Class C3) to a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to five people (Class C4). The application also included proposals for a single-storey rear extension, the demolition of an existing rear extension, the installation of solar panels, and new vehicle parking at the front. The report indicated that the property had been operating as an HMO for over 20 years, and the application sought to regularise this use. The proposal was located within the Christ Church Conservation Area.

The report outlined that the principle of development was considered acceptable, noting that HMOs play a role in meeting housing needs. It was also stated that the proposed extension and solar panels would not adversely affect the character and appearance of the Conservation Area due to their siting and scale. Concerns raised by neighbours regarding parking, noise, and amenity were addressed, with the report suggesting that the proposed use would not result in an unacceptable proliferation of HMOs in the area. The report recommended granting planning permission subject to conditions, including those related to landscaping, cycle storage, waste management, and the achievement of 'Secured by Design' accreditation.

Crook Log Sports Centre, Brampton Road, Bexleyheath, Kent, DA7 4HH

The committee was scheduled to review an application for the erection of four padel courts with associated glass panels, fencing, and an all-weather canopy at Crook Log Sports Centre, Brampton Road, Bexleyheath, Kent, DA7 4HH. The proposed courts would be 7m tall at the eaves and 10.6m at the apex of the canopy, with dimensions of 40m in width and 22m in depth. The application site is designated as Urban Open Space and within a Sustainable Development Location.

The report indicated that the principle of development was considered acceptable, aligning with policies to increase sports and recreation facilities. The scale and materiality of the proposed structure were deemed to be in keeping with the existing leisure centre complex and would not adversely impact the openness of the Urban Open Space. The report addressed concerns from a local resident regarding increased parking stress, noise, and lighting, stating that a noise impact assessment found the change in noise levels to be not significant and that lighting would comply with guidance. The proposal was also noted to exceed the minimum requirement for Biodiversity Net Gain. The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to conditions including those relating to construction environmental management, landscaping, and operating hours.

82 Selwyn Crescent, Welling, Kent, DA16 2AN

The committee was scheduled to consider an application for the erection of an attached two-storey dwelling with refuse storage and parking to the front at 82 Selwyn Crescent, Welling, Kent, DA16 2AN. This application also included a part one/part two storey rear extension and alterations to fenestration, with the rear extension element being identical to a previously granted permission. The existing property at 82 Selwyn Crescent had previously been converted into two apartments.

The report suggested that the principle of development was acceptable, contributing to housing supply and making efficient use of land. The design was considered to be in character with the street scene, overcoming previous refusal reasons related to discordant development. The proposed dwelling was assessed to meet minimum space standards for residential accommodation, and the provision of private amenity space was deemed acceptable. Concerns raised by neighbours regarding noise, intensification, privacy, and drainage were addressed, with the report concluding no significant harm to neighbouring amenities. The Highway Authority raised no objections, subject to conditions regarding parking, electric vehicle charging points, and refuse storage. The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to various conditions including those for sustainable drainage systems, waste management, and cycle storage.