The Planning Sub Committee B of Islington Council met on Thursday 11 June 2026 to consider 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 a number of conditions.

Unit 5, Roman Way Industrial Estate

The committee granted planning permission for the retrospective application for a change of use from Light Industrial (B1(c)) to a Commercial Kitchen and Delivery Centre (Sui Generis) at Unit 5, Roman Way Industrial Estate¹. The application also included the installation of external plant and alterations to the hours of operation to include Sundays and Bank Holidays.

The application was met with significant public objection, primarily concerning noise, odour, air quality, and highway safety, particularly regarding the cumulative impact of this use alongside the existing Deliveroo Editions dark kitchen at Unit 4. Councillor Emerson, speaking as the ward councillor for Barnsbury, highlighted residents' concerns about the intensification of the industrial estate and requested that any permission be temporary and tightly conditioned.

Officers recommended approval, subject to conditions, noting that the proposed use is akin to an industrial use and therefore acceptable within the Locally Significant Industrial Site (LSIS). They also confirmed that while the application sought to include Sundays and Bank Holidays, a condition was recommended to restrict operations to Monday to Saturday, between 12:00 and 22:00 hours, to protect neighbouring amenity. Further conditions were imposed to restrict access and egress to the Roman Way entrance only, and to ensure that deliveries and servicing occur between 08:00 and 17:00 hours. An updated Operational Management Plan was also required within 12 months of permission being granted.

During the discussion, members raised several points:

• Councillor Jeapes enquired about the types of cooking and fire safety measures in place. The applicant confirmed that they rent kitchens to small businesses and have a full fire plan, extinguishers, and consultations with the fire brigade.
• Councillor Ward sought clarification on the ventilation systems and filtration, to which the applicant agreed to accommodate additional filtration requirements.
• Councillor Cain asked about restricting delivery vehicles to electric-only, but officers advised against this condition due to previous appeal decisions. However, the committee agreed to a condition requiring the applicant to use best endeavours to ensure the use of electric delivery vehicles and include this in the operational management plan.
• Councillor Peck raised concerns about drivers using the Offord Street entrance, and the committee agreed to a condition requiring appropriate signage and the applicant's commitment to a penalty system for drivers who do not comply.
• The committee also agreed to amend the condition regarding the Operational Management Plan, requiring its submission within three months and a review 12 months thereafter.

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