The Croydon Planning Committee met on Thursday 11 June 2026, with the primary focus being the determination of a significant planning application for 12 to 14 Tennyson Road, South Norwood. The committee ultimately refused this application. Additionally, the committee considered and granted a separate planning application for alterations and extensions at 37 Pollard's Hill South, Norbury.

12 to 14 Tennyson Road, South Norwood

The committee refused planning permission for the erection of extensions and associated alterations to two existing large Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) at 12 to 14 Tennyson Road, South Norwood, London, SE25 5RT. The proposal also included the conversion of these properties into 12 flats and the erection of a new building to the rear to accommodate an additional 12 flats, resulting in a total of 24 flats on the site.

The decision to refuse was made after considerable deliberation, with Councillor Mark Johnson proposing the refusal, seconded by Councillor Sean Fitzsimons. The grounds for refusal centred on concerns regarding the demolition and alterations to the locally listed buildings, the impact on heritage assets, and the design of the rear building, which was considered out of keeping with the character of the front properties. There were also concerns raised about parking provision and the overall impact on the surrounding area.

During the discussion, officers highlighted that while the proposal offered benefits such as increased housing supply and biodiversity net gain, it also presented harm to non-designated heritage assets. The lack of affordable housing was noted, although officers explained that viability assessments indicated no affordable housing could be viably provided. The committee also discussed the design of the rear building, with some members finding it unattractive and incongruous with the existing Victorian properties. The issue of parking was also a significant concern, with reservations expressed about the potential for increased parking stress in the area.

37 Pollard's Hill South, Norbury

The committee granted planning permission for alterations and the erection of a front porch and single-storey rear extension, including a raised patio, at 37 Pollard's Hill South, Norbury. This decision was made following the officer's recommendation to grant permission, subject to conditions.

Councillor Mark Johnson stated he could find no reason to refuse the application, noting that the proposed works were modest and did not appear to negatively impact neighbours. Councillor Rowena Davis agreed, highlighting that the alterations were not overbearing and would not be visible from the street. The applicant, Tef's work Belaina, spoke in support of the application, explaining the need for the extension to create a more functional family home and assuring the committee that parking would not be an issue. An objection had been submitted by Shamaz Khan, raising concerns about overdevelopment, obtrusive design, overlooking, and potential structural impacts on neighbouring properties due to excavation works. However, officers clarified that previous applications had been refused on different grounds, and the current proposals were considered acceptable.