The Planning Committee of Ealing Council met on Wednesday, 24 January 2024, to discuss and decide on two significant planning applications. The committee granted planning permission for the redevelopment of the Library for Iranian Studies in Acton and for the phased redevelopment of Northolt High School.

Redevelopment of Northolt High School, Eastcote Lane, Northolt, UB5 4HP

The committee granted planning permission for the phased redevelopment of Northolt High School to provide a new educational building, sixth form, and additional resource provision. The plans also include extensions to existing sports pitches and the installation of a multi-use games area (MUGA). The decision was made subject to the successful resolution of planning conditions and the payment of financial contributions, to be secured via an internal transfer from the London Borough of Ealing Education Department.

The redevelopment aims to significantly improve educational facilities, increase sports provision, and create a net-zero carbon development. The proposal was supported by officers, who highlighted its compliance with local and national planning policies, including the London Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Concerns raised during public consultation regarding traffic and noise were addressed by officers, who confirmed that the school's capacity would not increase significantly and that financial contributions would be made for traffic calming measures and school safety zones. The scheme also includes substantial tree planting and biodiversity net gain credentials.

Redevelopment of the Library for Iranian Studies, Crown Street, Acton W3 8SA

Planning permission was granted for the redevelopment of the Library for Iranian Studies site in Acton. The proposal involves the demolition of the existing building and the construction of a part nine, part eight, and part three-storey building. This new development will house a cultural centre, library, and café on the lower floors, with 105 student accommodation units on the upper floors. The decision was granted subject to the satisfactory completion of Section 106 and Section 278 legal agreements, and the payment of a Community Infrastructure Levy to the Greater London Authority.

The application was supported by officers who noted broad policy support for the expansion of the cultural facility and the contribution of student units to meet housing needs. The scheme was the result of extensive discussions regarding the provision of affordable student accommodation, with four units agreed upon after multiple viability assessments. Objectors raised concerns about the building's height, its impact on light and privacy for nearby residents, construction traffic, and the loss of trees. Officers addressed these concerns by highlighting the contemporary design, the building's context within Acton town centre, and the mitigation measures proposed, including a construction management plan to avoid sensitive routes and financial contributions towards local amenities and infrastructure. The development is also designed to be car-free, with significant provision for cycle parking.