The Development Control Committee is scheduled to consider several planning applications, including proposals for residential development in Crystal Palace Park and industrial units in Penge. The committee will also discuss reforms to planning committee procedures and review Key Performance Indicators for the Planning Service.

Crystal Palace Park Residential Development

A significant item on the agenda is the consideration of reserved matters for residential development within Crystal Palace Park. The application, number 25/04937/RES, relates to the Rockhills and Sydenham Villas sites and proposes the construction of new residential buildings. The report pack indicates that the development would deliver 202 dwellings, all of which would be affordable housing, with a substantial proportion designated as social rent. The proposals also include a community centre. The report details extensive consultation with various stakeholders, including Historic England, Natural England, Transport for London, and local residents' associations, with a summary of representations highlighting concerns regarding design, heritage, residential amenity, transport, and environmental impact. The assessment within the report pack addresses the principle of development, quality of residential accommodation, impacts on neighbouring amenity, heritage, design, transport, green infrastructure, flood risk, energy, fire safety, and planning obligations.

Muirhead Vactric Industrial Development

The committee is also scheduled to review a full planning application (26/01690/FPA) for the erection of employment buildings at Muirhead Vactric, Oakfield Road, Penge. The proposal involves the construction of eight industrial units totalling 5,134.2sqm, along with associated car and cycle parking, landscaping, a new substation, and an acoustic fence. The site is located within a designated Locally Significant Industrial Site (LSIS). The report pack indicates that the development aims to provide high-quality employment floorspace and create jobs. It details consultations with statutory bodies such as the Environment Agency and Thames Water, as well as internal departments like Highways and Environmental Health. Concerns raised by local residents and groups, including the RSPB, regarding noise, visual impact, and the loss of trees are addressed in the assessment. The report highlights the development's commitment to sustainability, targeting BREEAM Excellent and a 100% reduction in carbon emissions against Building Regulations.

Planning Committee Reforms

The committee will also consider report HPR2026/027 concerning Planning Committee Reforms. These reforms are being introduced following legislative changes from the government, taking effect from 31st October 2026. The report outlines proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution to comply with new regulations, which include restrictions on the types of applications that can be determined by a planning committee and a limit on committee size to a maximum of thirteen councillors. The report recommends that the Development Control Committee note these proposed changes and refer the matter to Full Council.

HPR Planning KPIs

Finally, the committee is scheduled to review the HPR Planning KPIs for Quarter 4 of the 2025/26 financial year. This agenda item will provide an update on the performance of the Planning Service against various Key Performance Indicators.