The Kensington and Chelsea Planning Applications Committee convened to discuss several planning applications and an enforcement case, ultimately granting permission for most applications with specific conditions, while one application for a shop front was refused. The committee also closed an enforcement case regarding the painting of a building.

Here's a breakdown of the key topics discussed:

Pembridge Crescent

The committee approved an application for extensions and alterations to a property at 16 Pembridge Crescent. The application included a rear extension, roof terrace, changes to the roof, and installation of air conditioning units. Objectors, including Mr Peacock and Mr Millan, neighbours from numbers 15 and 17, raised concerns about the size of the rear extension, its impact on the consistent rear alignment of the three properties, and the removal of a mature walnut tree. The agent for the application stated that the proposals were developed in consultation with the planning department and were sensitive to the conservation area¹. Councillor Emma Dent Coad raised questions about the size of the balcony and its potential for overlooking. Officers stated that the extension was similar to others in the area and that the air conditioning units would be located within the roof valley, minimising their visibility. The committee granted permission with the conditions outlined in the report.

Pembridge Road

The committee refused an application for the replacement of a shop front at 16 Pembridge Road. Councillor Joanna Gardner and Mrs Fleming Brown spoke against the application, raising concerns about the suitability of the proposed sliding doors, the impact on the streetscape, and potential noise issues. Councillor Lloyd North echoed these concerns, suggesting that the applicant should be encouraged to amend the plans. Officers stated that the recommendation to approve was made on balance due to the existing aluminium shop front with a large opening. The committee voted to refuse the application, with officers advised to formulate reasons for refusal based on the shop front policy regarding open shop fronts and the impact on the character of the area.

Arundel Gardens

The committee approved an application for a lower ground floor extension and roof terrace at 20 Arundel Gardens. Officers had sought amendments to the design of the staircase. The recommendation to grant permission with the conditions set out in the report was agreed.

Cathcart Road

The committee approved an application for a side extension and relocation of the front door at 7 Cathcart Road. Mr Martin Laggard, a neighbour from 53 Seymour Walk, raised concerns about overshadowing and loss of light. The agent for the applicant, Mr Stephen Carroll, stated that the proposals had been amended to address concerns raised during the pre-application process. Officers stated that a daylight/sunlight assessment was not necessary due to the orientation of the site. The recommendation to grant permission with the conditions set out in the report was agreed.

Earl's Court Square

The committee discussed an enforcement case at 24 Earl's Court Square regarding the painting of the front elevation magnolia. The item had been deferred from previous meetings to allow for discussions between the enforcement officers, the owner, and the residents association. Officers maintained their opinion that the painting did not materially change the colour and therefore was not development, so no action could be taken. Councillor North asked about a potential compromise that had been suggested. Councillor Dent Coad commented on the nature of the discussion, stating that only in the royal borough would we be arguing about shades of magnolia . The committee agreed to accept the officer recommendation that no further action be taken and the case be closed.

Holland Park

The committee approved planning permission and listed building consent for the erection of a garden outbuilding and timber pergola at 36 Holland Park. The recommendation to grant planning permission and listed building consent was agreed.

Queensdale Road

The committee approved an application for extensions and alterations to a property at 30 Queensdale Road. The recommendation to grant permission was agreed.

Holbein Place

The committee approved planning permission and advertisement consent for a single-storey rear extension, bike and bin stores, replacement of plant, and new adverts at 18-22 Holbein Place. The recommendation to grant planning permission and advertising consent was agreed.