The Planning Sub-Committee of Croydon Council met on Thursday, 26 September 2024, to consider two planning applications. Both applications, located in Purley, were granted permission by the committee.

56 Smitham Downs Road, Purley, CR8 4NE

The committee granted permission for the demolition of the existing dwelling at 56 Smitham Downs Road, Purley, CR8 4NE and the erection of a pair of semi-detached dwellings and one detached dwelling. The decision was made with six members voting in favour.

During the deliberation, members raised concerns that the proposed development was an overdevelopment of the site. However, they also acknowledged the housing need that needed to be met and that the scheme was policy compliant. The arguments for granting permission highlighted that the scheme would provide three family houses.

24 Smitham Bottom Lane, Purley, CR8 3DA

Permission was granted for the demolition of the existing garage and the subdivision of the garden at 24 Smitham Bottom Lane, Purley, CR8 3DA for the erection of four dwellings. This was an outline planning permission application, meaning that matters relating to access, appearance, layout, and scale were considered, with landscaping to be determined later. The decision was carried with six members voting in favour.

Concerns were raised by residents about the proliferation of flats in the area, but the committee noted that this scheme was for four family homes. Arguments in favour of the development included that it was subservient to the host property, that separation distances were policy compliant, and that amenity space and parking provision were adequate. The scheme was also considered to be in keeping with other backland developments in the area.

The meeting concluded at 9:27 pm.