The Planning Sub Committee B of Islington Council met on Thursday 11 June 2026 to discuss a planning application for Unit 5, Roman Way Industrial Estate. The committee granted planning permission for the retrospective application for a change of use to a commercial kitchen and delivery centre, subject to several conditions.

Unit 5, Roman Way Industrial Estate, 149 Roman Way, N7 8XH

The committee granted planning permission for the retrospective application to change the use of Unit 5 at the Roman Way Industrial Estate from light industrial (B1(c)) to a commercial kitchen and delivery centre (Sui Generis). This includes the installation of external plant and extract flues, and alterations to the hours of operation.

Councillor Joe Peck, the ward councillor for Holloway, introduced the application, noting that officers recommended an update to Condition 8 regarding the kitchen extract flues to ensure they vertically discharge at a high velocity. It was confirmed that welfare facilities, including WCs, would be available for all staff, including delivery riders.

Councillor Emerson, the ward councillor for Barnsbury, raised objections on behalf of residents, citing concerns about the cumulative impact of a second, larger dark kitchen on the estate. These concerns included noise, traffic, air quality, and late-night disturbance. Councillor Emerson requested that if the application were approved, it should be subject to strict conditions, such as temporary permission, no Sunday or bank holiday operations, closure by 10 pm, and no use of the Offord Street access.

The applicant responded that all concerns had been addressed within the application, including air quality, cumulative impacts, and odour control. They clarified that the facility would provide kitchen spaces for small, independent food businesses, rather than being used for their own cooking. The applicant also confirmed that comprehensive fire safety measures were in place and that ventilation and odour control systems could be upgraded if necessary.

Members of the committee raised detailed questions about the operation and management of the site. The applicant explained that while they could not directly control the use of petrol vehicles due to reliance on third-party delivery platforms, they would promote the use of electric vehicles through signage and engagement with delivery partners. They also agreed to comply with restrictions on the use of the Offord Street access, with enforcement measures in place, and committed to providing a clear complaints contact with responses within five working days.

The committee discussed and agreed to several amendments to the conditions. These included requiring an updated Operational Management Plan (OMP) to be submitted within three months, with a further review and resubmission 12 months later. The OMP would also need to include details of signage noting restrictions on the Offord Street entrance and how the use of electric vehicles has been encouraged. An informative was also added regarding the presentation of the email address on the website and a response time of five working days for complaints.

Ultimately, the committee voted unanimously to grant planning permission, subject to the agreed conditions and informatives.