The Planning Committee of Kingston upon Thames Council met on Wednesday 16 September 2026 to discuss two significant planning applications. The committee approved the use of land at Riverhill Yard for a Christmas tree nursery and the demolition of existing buildings at Warren Park Children's Centre to make way for a healthcare rehabilitation centre.

Land at Riverhill Yard, Old Malden Lane, Worcester Park

The committee approved the use of land at Riverhill Yard for a Christmas tree nursery, including the installation of a modular office, storage containers, and poly tunnels. This decision was made subject to conditions and the completion of a legal agreement. The application was part retrospective, with some elements already in place.

Concerns were raised by local residents and Councillor Phillip Neill of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council regarding increased traffic, noise, and light pollution, particularly during the operational season. Objectors also highlighted issues with the use of large HGVs and potential breaches of existing covenants.

The applicant, Pines and Needles, represented by David Morrell, Operations Director, and Ann Fowler, a local resident, argued that the development would bring a derelict site back into use, reducing anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping. They stated that significant efforts had been made to address traffic and noise concerns, with complaints and issues drastically reducing over the past three seasons.

The committee discussed the site's designation as Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) and the principle of development within such areas. Officers confirmed that the proposed use, being horticultural, aligned with acceptable uses within MOL. Conditions were agreed upon to address traffic management, including the use of a banksman during peak periods and the approval of a vehicle routing plan.

Warren Park Children's Centre, Kingston Hill

The committee approved the demolition of existing buildings at Warren Park Children's Centre and the erection of a three-storey healthcare rehabilitation centre for pre- and post-operative care. This decision was also subject to conditions and the completion of a legal agreement.

The application faced objections from local residents, particularly those living on Ladderstile Ride, who raised concerns about the scale, massing, and height of the proposed building, its impact on daylight and sunlight, privacy, and potential noise and odour from the facility. Councillor Rowena Bass, a ward councillor for Coombe Hill, echoed these concerns, particularly regarding the visual impact on Richmond Park and the existing parking pressures in the area.

The applicant, represented by Mr. Fidgett, Mr. McAfee, and Mr. Grogan, highlighted the need for such rehabilitation facilities and the positive impact on healthcare outcomes. They stated that the design had evolved through extensive consultation and pre-application advice, aiming to be sympathetic to the surrounding context. They also addressed concerns about parking, stating confidence in the proposed provision and the existence of a travel plan.

The committee discussed the impact on heritage assets, including Richmond Park (a Grade I listed park and garden) and its Grade II listed boundary wall. The RBK Heritage Officer concluded that the impact would be neutral, although The Royal Parks objected, citing concerns about increased visibility from the park and potential light spill. The committee also debated the issue of parking on local streets, with officers noting that a parking survey had been conducted and that the proposed on-site provision was considered adequate. Conditions were agreed to address overlooking from the terrace and to secure funding for a parking survey. The Thames Water objection regarding sewage infrastructure was noted, with a condition to prevent occupation until upgrades are completed or a phasing plan is agreed.

Ultimately, the committee voted to approve the application, with nine in favour and one against, acknowledging the benefits of bringing a disused site back into use for a much-needed healthcare facility, while also addressing concerns through conditions and legal agreements.