The Planning Committee of Enfield Council met on Tuesday 30 June 2026 to consider two planning applications. The meeting's agenda included a report from the Head of Planning and Building Control, and discussions were scheduled regarding the permanent use of John Wilkes House as a hostel for homeless men and the erection of boundary fencing at 2 Valley Fields Crescent.

John Wilkes House, 79 High Street, Enfield, EN3 4EN

The committee was scheduled to consider a report concerning the permanent use of John Wilkes House as a hostel for 36 single homeless men. The recommendation was to grant consent subject to conditions. The report highlighted the ongoing homelessness crisis in London and Enfield, and detailed how the facility, operational since March 2025, had successfully supported individuals into independent living. It was noted that the proposal would make use of a former vacant office building and was considered to provide an acceptable standard of accommodation with appropriate servicing and parking. Concerns raised during public consultation regarding crime and anti-social behaviour were addressed, with operational data and Metropolitan Police input indicating no substantiated adverse impacts. The report indicated that the proposal was considered to represent a sustainable form of development that meets an identified need and delivers significant social benefits.

2 Valley Fields Crescent, EN2 7QA

The committee was scheduled to discuss an application for the erection of boundary fencing along newly acquired land to the front and side of the property at 2 Valley Fields Crescent. The recommendation was to grant planning permission subject to conditions. The report indicated that the proposed fencing, with heights of approximately 1.67 metres at the front and 1.8 metres at the side, would be incorporated into the curtilage of the dwelling. The scale, siting, and appearance of the proposed boundary treatment were considered appropriate for the residential context and unlikely to harm the character of the street scene or the amenities of neighbouring dwellings. The report also noted that the proposal would not negatively impact pedestrian or road users and would be broadly in accordance with relevant planning policies. Conditions were recommended to ensure the protection of street trees and to finalise the details of the external finishing materials.