The Planning Applications Sub-Committee convened to discuss planning applications, with key decisions made regarding the redevelopment of Custom House into a hotel and the use of the Sugar Quay Jetty for restaurant seating. The committee approved the Custom House redevelopment, balancing the benefits of public access and economic use against the harm to the listed building. Conversely, the application for Sugar Quay Jetty was approved after a lengthy debate, with concerns raised about noise and loss of public space.

Custom House Redevelopment

The Sub-Committee approved applications 25/00270/FULMAJ and 25/00271/LBC, concerning planning permission and listed building consent for the redevelopment of Custom House, 20 Lower Thames Street into a hotel-led mixed-use building. The proposal includes a hotel, spa and health centre, food and beverage facilities, a public north/south route, and gallery and event spaces.

Arguments for Approval:

• Public Benefits: The redevelopment promises significant public benefits, including enhanced public realm with unrestricted access to the riverside, step-free access to the building, and cultural engagement opportunities.
• Economic Viability: A financial viability assessment demonstrated that the loss of office accommodation was acceptable in this instance.
• Conservation-Led Approach: The design retains much of the original building fabric, with a focus on adapting and restoring existing features.
• Sustainability: The project aims for an Excellent rating under BREEAM[^2] sustainable building certification, incorporating measures such as air-source heat pumps and reinstated external blinds.

Concerns and Mitigation:

• Harm to Listed Building: The extent of interventions required for the redevelopment would cause less than substantial harm to the Grade I listed building. This harm was weighed against the public benefits of the scheme.
• Carbon Emissions: Concerns were raised about increased carbon emissions, particularly from the spa. Officers clarified that the figures reflected a worst-case scenario and that the constraints of the site limited opportunities for improving the building envelope.

Decision:

The Sub-Committee approved both the planning permission and listed building consent, subject to conditions and the execution of planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and Section 278 of the Highways Act 1980.

Sugar Quay Jetty

The Sub-Committee approved planning permission for the use of part of Sugar Quay Jetty for seating and service in association with the restaurant and drinking establishment use (Sui Generis) located on the ground floor of the adjacent Sugar Quay, Lower Thames Street, together with associated works including installation of furniture, and perimeter planters and benches (application number not provided).

Arguments for Approval:

• Vibrancy and Activity: The proposal aims to introduce vitality and vibrancy to the riverfront, enhancing the area in line with the City's Destination City vision and the emerging City Plan 2040.
• Public Access: The scheme would retain approximately 60% of the jetty open to the public, with new planting, landscaping, and public seating on the public-facing side.
• Economic Growth: The proposal would encourage greater engagement with the riverfront, supporting economic growth in the area.

Objections and Concerns:

• Loss of Public Space: Objectors raised concerns about the commercialisation of publicly accessible land and the loss of open space.
• Noise and Disturbance: Residents expressed concerns about increased noise and disturbance from the outdoor seating area.
• Safety: Concerns were raised about pedestrian safety, particularly regarding staff crossing the walkway with food and drinks.
• Legal Issues: Objectors argued that the proposal would interfere with residents' rights under their leases and the River Works Licence.

Mitigation Measures:

• Conditions: The Sub-Committee imposed conditions to mitigate the potential impacts, including a 9:00 PM closing time, seated service only, no amplified music, and a detailed operational management plan.
• Operational Management Plan: The operational management plan would include noise controls, quiet set-up and close-down procedures, and specifications for trolleys used by staff.
• Highways Evidence: The applicant provided highways evidence confirming that pedestrian comfort and safety would be preserved, with a minimum peak average of B+.

Decision:

After a lengthy debate, the Sub-Committee approved the planning permission by a vote of 13 to 12, subject to the recommended conditions.

Other Business

The Sub-Committee also:

• Received details of valid planning applications received by the Environment Department since the last meeting.
• Received details of delegated decisions made by the Chief Planning Officer and Development Director.
• Discussed concerns about the lack of Member input into the Corporation's response to the government consultation on the reform of planning committees.
• Received an update on the City Plan process, with examination hearings scheduled for March-June 2026.