The Planning Committee of Sutton Council met on Wednesday 6 August 2025. The committee considered plans for two additional bedrooms at a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Hackbridge, and the retention of a pergola in Calico Avenue, Hackbridge. The committee also considered an application to extend the operating hours of the sports hall at Wallington County Grammar School.

37 Longfield Avenue, Hackbridge

The committee considered a proposal for the addition of two bedrooms to an existing seven-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 37 Longfield Avenue, Hackbridge, which would increase its capacity to nine bedrooms. This proposal was considered despite 25 letters of objection from residents, primarily concerning the principle of HMO intensification, potential overdevelopment, and impact on neighbour amenity. Officers noted that while the property is semi-detached, contrary to a specific policy requirement for detached properties in such cases, the proposal largely complied with other criteria and the breach was considered to have limited weight. The addition of the bedrooms was deemed acceptable in land use terms, with no adverse impact on neighbour amenity or character of the street scene. A Section 106 legal agreement would prevent future occupants from obtaining parking permits.

19 Calico Avenue, Hackbridge

The committee considered a proposal for the retention of a pergola at the rear of 19 Calico Avenue, Hackbridge. The application was brought to the committee due to objections from neighbours and a petition, citing concerns about loss of light, visual obstruction, and security. Officers concluded that the pergola, measuring 3m deep, 4m wide, and 2.5m high, was of acceptable design and scale, and would not cause a material loss of light or outlook to neighbouring properties. The structure's dark grey aluminium finish was noted to match existing features on the property and within the wider estate. Despite the property being for sale, the decision was based on planning grounds, with the committee finding no adverse impact on neighbour amenity or highway safety.

Wallington County Grammar School, Croydon Road, Wallington

The committee considered an application to extend the operating hours of the sports hall at Wallington County Grammar School. The extension would allow for an additional hour of use on weekday evenings, until 10 pm, and would permit weekend use between 8 am and 10 pm. This proposal was considered despite objections from residents concerned about increased traffic, parking issues, and noise disturbance. Officers, supported by the school's transport consultants, concluded that the existing 42-space car park would be sufficient to accommodate the increased use, with a car park management plan in place to prevent overspill onto surrounding roads. The extended hours were seen as a positive step in maximising the use of community facilities and promoting health and wellbeing, aligning with London Plan policies. The committee noted the school's efforts to generate income through community lettings, which is crucial given current funding pressures. The committee voted to grant permission for the extended hours.