The Planning Committee B of Lewisham Council met on Thursday 29 February 2024, approving two significant development applications. These included the creation of four live/work units at Unit 1, Ashby Mews, and nine new dwelling houses on land to the western side of Millbank Way. A third application for 135 Minard Road was deferred.

Unit 1, Ashby Mews, London SE4 1TB

The committee approved an application for the partial demolition and extension of a light industrial building at Unit 1, Ashby Mews, London SE4 1TB to create four two-storey live/work units. The decision was made following discussions about ensuring the units would genuinely be used for both living and working, with planning officers confirming that conditions are in place to enforce this. Concerns were raised by an objector regarding potential subletting of workspaces and the lowering of a party fence, which they felt would negatively impact neighbouring gardens through increased light pollution and noise. The applicant, however, argued that the scheme would be of high quality design, preserve the character of the mews conservation area, and that the existing building had an unrestricted commercial use. A supporter of the application highlighted the successful transformation of similar areas into vibrant communities of creators and artists, believing Ashby Mews could also develop in this way. Councillor Jack Lavery, Chair of the Planning Committee, noted that the Mews had seen a shift from workshops to live/work units over the past decade, and while acknowledging the planning officers' focus on facts, expressed scepticism about the applicant's long-term intentions given previous attempts to convert the unit to purely residential use. Despite these concerns, the application was approved, with officers emphasising that enforceability of conditions would be secured through enforcement action if necessary.

Garages at Land on Western Side of Millbank Way, London SE12

The committee also approved the demolition of existing garages and the construction of nine dwelling houses, along with associated parking, refuse facilities, and landscaping, on land to the western side of Millbank Way, London SE12. The application was recommended for approval by officers, who addressed concerns about the tightness of bin storage areas and the maintenance of the green roof, confirming these were covered by conditions. The applicant stated that the scheme offered less density than a previous approved plan for flats, providing more family homes and incorporating features like green roofs and net-zero considerations. They also confirmed that a 16-metre distance was maintained between front-facing windows and non-habitable windows, and that a daylight/sunlight impact assessment had been passed. An objector raised concerns about the extent of neighbour consultation, the visual impact of a blind corner, and pressure on parking. The officer clarified that while pre-application consultation is not a requirement, engagement had occurred. Members raised concerns about the location of the children's play area near the main road, and it was resolved to approve the application with conditions ensuring tree retention and protection, as well as a maintenance plan for the play area.

135 Minard Road, London SE6 1NN

This application was deferred by the committee.