The Brent Council Planning Committee granted planning permission for the redevelopment of the former Wembley Centre for Health & Care site, despite significant concerns raised by councillors and local residents regarding affordable housing provision, parking, and the impact on neighbouring amenity. The committee also approved plans for a new Multi-Use Games Area and cricket pitch at Kingsbury High School.

Redevelopment of Wembley Centre for Health & Care Site Approved

The Planning Committee of Brent Council granted planning permission for the demolition of existing buildings at the former Wembley Centre for Health & Care site on Chaplin Road, Wembley, and its redevelopment to provide 108 new homes. The decision was made after a lengthy debate and a tied vote, with the Chair casting the deciding vote in favour of approval.

The scheme, which includes 11 affordable homes, faced considerable opposition from local residents and some councillors who raised concerns about the low level of affordable housing, insufficient parking provision leading to potential congestion, the impact on neighbouring amenity due to loss of daylight, and the absence of community facilities. Councillor Harshadbhai Patel, Councillor Michael Maurice, Councillor Anton Georgiou, and Councillor Iman Ahmadi Moghaddam voted against the proposal, citing these issues.

Despite these objections, officers recommended approval, highlighting the efficient use of a long-term vacant brownfield site and the delivery of much-needed housing, including affordable and family-sized homes. The applicant, Fairview New Homes, had amended the scheme since a previous deferral to include an additional three-bedroom affordable home and some on-site play features for older children. The committee was informed that the proposed affordable housing provision of 11 homes (10% by unit) represented the maximum viable amount that could be delivered on the site.

Concerns about the impact on neighbouring amenity, particularly the loss of daylight to a kitchen window at 15 Fairview Avenue, were acknowledged. However, officers argued that the harm was limited and outweighed by the public benefits of the development. The loss of the Old Wembley Hospital buildings, identified as a non-designated heritage asset, was also considered, with a Level 2 building recording to be undertaken and an interpretation panel to be installed to explain the site's history.

The committee also debated the parking arrangements extensively. The development is largely car-free, with only 13 parking spaces provided, including three for Blue Badge holders. A car-free agreement for future residents, preventing them from obtaining on-street parking permits, is to be secured. This approach, officers argued, aligns with the London Plan's aim to promote sustainable travel in well-connected locations.

The decision to grant planning permission was made subject to the completion of a satisfactory Section 106 legal agreement to secure various planning obligations, including contributions towards active travel improvements, play space enhancements, and employment and training initiatives for local residents. Conditions were also imposed relating to construction management, landscaping, and fire safety.

Kingsbury High School Sports Facilities Approved

The committee also granted planning permission for the construction of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) facility and a cricket pitch at Kingsbury High School. The proposal includes artificial sports pitches, netting, fencing, and lighting.

Objectors, including the Roe Green Village Residents' Association, raised concerns about the development's impact on the character of the Roe Green Village Conservation Area, potential noise and light pollution, and the environmental implications of artificial turf. They also questioned the clarity and accuracy of the application details and the consultation process.

The school's headteacher, Alex Thomas, presented the case for the development, highlighting the need for improved sports facilities to support the curriculum, promote healthy lifestyles, and benefit the wider community. He stated that the school had worked collaboratively with officers to address concerns and that the design had been refined to minimise impacts on neighbouring residents. The proposal was supported by numerous letters from parents and local sports organisations.

Officers recommended approval, concluding that the benefits of the new facilities, including enhanced sporting opportunities and community use, outweighed the identified harm. Conditions were imposed to restrict operating hours, manage noise levels, and ensure the use of environmentally sustainable materials for the artificial turf.

Other Matters

The committee also considered an application for a new dwellinghouse at Thanet Lodge Garages, Mapesbury Road. However, this application was deferred to allow for further investigation into land ownership and the definition of self-build development in relation to the applicant. Concerns had been raised by objectors regarding alleged intimidation and bullying by the freeholder during the consultation process, though officers stated that such matters were not material planning considerations.

The meeting also addressed apologies for absence and the confirmation of minutes from the previous meeting. There was no other urgent business raised. The next Planning Committee meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, 8 September 2026.