The Strategic Development Committee of Newham Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 23 June 2026. The primary item scheduled for discussion is a planning application for the replacement of the Sunborn London Yacht Hotel.

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel Replacement

The committee is scheduled to consider a planning application for the replacement of the existing Sunborn Yacht Hotel at Western Gateway, Canning Town, London E16 1AA. The proposal involves replacing the current vessel with a newly built and improved one, along with an altered and permanent mooring position. The application site affects the setting of Grade II Listed Buildings, specifically the Stothert and Pitt Cranes. The report pack indicates a recommendation for approval for this application.

The report details that the proposed new vessel would be 133.7m long, 18.4m wide, and 15.6m in height, featuring seven decks and accommodating up to 446 persons, with 23 of the cabins designated as accessible. The vessel would be moored at an angle of approximately 30 degrees away from the dockside, connected by a new floating gangway that would incorporate new plants and greenery.

The report pack notes that the principle of development for a hotel use in this location is considered established, with previous permissions granted for the Sunborn Yacht. The proposed replacement is described as being identical in scale and size to a previously approved, though not fully implemented, scheme. Concerns raised by objectors regarding the permanent nature of the permission compared to previous temporary consents are acknowledged, but the report indicates that the impacts are considered acceptable.

Regarding heritage, the report states that the proposed siting of the yacht would not result in undue harm to the nearby Grade II Listed Stothert and Pitt cranes. The design of the new vessel is considered acceptable, and the proposed moorings, including access ramps and gangways with biodiverse planting, are also deemed appropriate.

Potential impacts on neighbouring amenity are addressed, with a noise impact assessment finding the proposal acceptable, subject to conditions. A daylight and sunlight report concludes that the Royal Victoria Square would continue to receive adequate sunlight. Concerns about lighting are noted, with a condition proposed to secure a detailed lighting management plan.

The report also covers waste management, biodiversity, transport, and accessibility. The proposal includes an increase in cycle parking spaces and maintains existing delivery and servicing arrangements. It is noted that 23 wheelchair-accessible rooms would be provided, meeting policy requirements. The sustainability measures are outlined, and flood risk is considered manageable due to the vessel's floating nature.

The report recommends approval, subject to the completion of a legal agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the imposition of various conditions. These conditions cover aspects such as time limits, approved documents, construction and logistics plans, external details, photovoltaic cells, fixed plant machinery, mains power, delivery and servicing management, blue badge parking, landscaping, designing out crime, servicing and management plans for plant, and controls for cafés, restaurants, and public houses. Further conditions relate to dust, emissions, noise from construction, control of lighting, a bird hazard management plan, and the Urban Greening Factor. The Section 106 agreement heads of terms include administrative provisions, a commitment to local labour via Our Newham, and a CCTV scheme.