The Planning Committee of Enfield Council met on Tuesday 23 January 2024 and granted planning permission for the redevelopment of land at Commercial Road and 4 and 8 Bull Lane, N18. The committee also noted reports on appeal decisions and future meeting dates.

Redevelopment of Land at Commercial Road and 4 and 8 Bull Lane, N18

The committee granted planning permission for the demolition of existing buildings and the redevelopment of the site at Commercial Road and 4 and 8 Bull Lane, N18 with three new buildings. These buildings will be subdivided into seven units for B2 general industrial, B8 storage and distribution, and E(g)(iii) light industrial purposes, with ancillary offices, associated car parking, servicing, and landscaping.

The decision was made subject to the completion of a Section 106 Agreement to secure various obligations, and the Head of Planning and Building Control was granted delegated authority to finalise the wording of this agreement and the associated conditions.

The proposal was considered to be a positive development for the area, aligning with the council's commitment to supporting economic growth and sustainable development. The redevelopment will improve the condition of the site, increase industrial floorspace by 345 sqm, and has the potential to create more jobs. The design of the new buildings was praised for its modern aesthetic and its integration with the surrounding urban context, including enhanced landscaping and sustainable drainage features.

Concerns raised during the meeting included potential traffic generation and highway safety. Officers addressed these by noting that a thorough transportation assessment had been conducted, and that a condition would be imposed to restrict vehicle parking within designated bays to help manage trip generation. The applicant's agent, Andy Ryley, spoke in response to deputations. A deputation was received from Romie Tager, representing Romeo Trading Co Ltd, who spoke against the officers' recommendation.

The development will also incorporate measures to enhance sustainability, including the provision of electric vehicle charging points, cycle parking, and a commitment to achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating for the new buildings. The proposal also includes measures for Biodiversity Net Gain, exceeding the emerging statutory minimum requirement.

The decision was unanimous, with 9 members voting in favour, 0 against, and 0 abstentions.

Appeal Decisions on Planning Applications

The committee noted a report detailing appeal decisions on planning applications. Between 1 April 2023 and 10 January 2024, 128 appeal decisions were received. Of these, 52 were dismissed, 30 were allowed, and 34 were withdrawn or invalid. No appeal decisions received during this period arose from decisions made by the Planning Committee itself.

Dates of Future Meetings

Members were informed of the dates for future Planning Committee meetings:

• Tuesday 20 February 2024
• Tuesday 5 March 2024 (provisional)
• Tuesday 19 March 2024
• Tuesday 23 April 2024

All meetings are scheduled to commence at 7:00 pm and will be held in the Conference Room at the Civic Centre.