The Local Development Committee of Newham Council met on Monday 23 September 2024, approving one planning application and deferring a decision on another. The committee granted permission for the installation of a new fence at Clapton Football Club and approved the change of use of a former public house in Forest Gate to a community centre, with amendments to the proposed use classes.

Hudson Bay, 1-5 Upton Lane, Forest Gate, London, E7 9PA

The committee approved the change of use of the ground floor and basement of Hudson Bay from a public house (sui generis) to a multi-functional community centre (use F.2). The decision was made subject to the completion of a legal agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, and included additional conditions to limit the range of Use Class E activities permitted at the site and to require further details on operations for any uses outside those already proposed.

The application had initially been submitted as a flexible facility for either Class E use or as a community centre. During negotiations, the applicant was asked to remove the Class E element. However, the committee discussed re-introducing Class E use, with the description of development to be altered accordingly. This amendment was made to provide the charity with flexibility for future funding needs.

Concerns were raised by local residents regarding the inclusivity of the proposed centre, with objections stating that the applicant's sole aim was to advance Islam and that it would discriminate against those not of the Muslim faith. Objectors also argued that there were already sufficient similar facilities in the area and that the loss of the pub would negatively impact the community.

Officers advised that the application fell under Class F.2 use, which could encompass the range of activities proposed. They also clarified that the initial community survey was circulated widely and not targeted to a specific demographic. The committee requested further details on operations, opening hours, and any other pertinent information for uses falling outside the indicative activities already proposed, with these details requiring approval before any additional use could commence.

409 High Street North, Manor Park, London, E12 6TL

Permission was granted for the construction of a part-three, part-four storey building at 409 High Street North, Manor Park, to include a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and a mixed-use co-working space/café. The decision was delegated to the Director of Planning and Development, 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.

The proposed development includes 29 HMO bedrooms, designed for single or double occupancy, aiming to provide affordable, quality accommodation for young professionals and undergraduates. The building will also feature communal living facilities on each floor, a shared roof terrace, and a co-working space with an ancillary café on the ground floor. The development is intended to be car-free, with provisions for cycle storage and mobility scooter storage.

The application was supported by the applicant, Kul Sanghera, who highlighted the scheme's potential to improve High Street North and provide much-needed affordable accommodation. He emphasised the purpose-built nature of the HMO, with comfortable living environments, large communal kitchens and dining areas, and a shared outdoor terrace to encourage social integration. The co-working space and café were presented as a unique offering for Newham residents.

Concerns raised by a neighbour included the building's height and potential impact on daylight, as well as the use of the building, questioning if it was intended as a hostel or student accommodation. Officers clarified that the units would be offered on the open market for private rent with minimum three-month tenancy agreements, and that the design adhered to London Plan space standards.

Clapton Football Club, Upton Lane, Forest Gate London

Permission was granted for the proposed installation of a mesh link fence at Clapton Football Club, Upton Lane, Forest Gate. The application site affects the setting of a Grade II Listed Building.

The proposal involves replacing the existing fencing along a 120m stretch of footpath with a 3.75m high, visually permeable V-fold mesh fence in green. This will also involve widening the footpath and improving access points. The committee was advised that the fence would enhance security and visual amenity, and that the design was considered appropriate for the context and would not detract from the appearance of the street scene or the adjacent listed building.

Craig Nicol, LUF Project Manager, presented the scheme, highlighting its role within the wider Levelling Up scheme and Upton Lane improvements. He noted that the applicant is a registered charity working with the Council to improve walking and cycle access and support local businesses. The committee heard that the new fencing would allow more natural light into the corridor and improve visibility, contributing to community safety.

The decision was made subject to conditions, including those relating to approved drawings, matching materials, and construction hours.

Other Business

Councillor Sabia Kamali was elected Deputy Chair of the Local Development Committee. The committee also noted advice from the Head of Legal Services regarding the determination of planning applications.