The Planning Committee of Croydon Council met on Thursday, 4 April 2024, and resolved to grant planning permission for a significant redevelopment project at 26 to 52 Whytecliffe Road South and Purley Station Car Park. The committee also noted the weekly planning decisions made by officers.

Redevelopment of 26 to 52 Whytecliffe Road South and Purley Station Car Park

The committee granted planning permission for the demolition of existing houses and the redevelopment of the site, including Purley Station Car Park, to provide 238 residential units. The development will consist of two buildings: a part 6, 8, and 9-storey building, and a separate part 4 and 5-storey building. The plans also include a replacement station car park, community indoor space, disabled car parking, communal amenity space, and improvements to the public realm on Whytecliffe Road South.

The officer presented the details of the planning application, addressing queries regarding the Place Review Panel's advice on sky gaps, the number of existing three-bedroom units, and the capacity of the rail network to accommodate additional passengers. It was explained that the Place Review Panel's suggestions for increased sky gaps were balanced against the impact on the number of residential units and affordable housing provision. Network Rail confirmed that Purley station has high capacity and no issues with accommodating the projected increase in passengers. The community space will be available for 20 hours a week for charity groups, with residents having access outside these hours.

Marco Tomasi and Richard Quelch spoke in support of the application, and Ward Member Councillor Samir Dwesar shared his views. During the deliberation, committee members noted that the scheme had been in development for five years and acknowledged the applicant's efforts to address previous concerns about the development's height. While the proposed nine-storey building exceeded the eight-storey limit for developments in Purley, members were comfortable with the height, noting that similar developments were not uncommon in the area. The significant net gain in housing units was highlighted as a key benefit, contributing to the council's housing strategy. The scheme was considered partially sustainable due to its proximity to the train station and the inclusion of solar panels and energy-efficient measures. Concerns were raised about the reduction in spaces at the train station car park and the absence of first-time buyer homes within the affordable housing provision. However, members also recognised the developers' engagement with residents and the design panel, and the design's sensitivity to the local character. The proposed improvements to the public realm, including new trees, a cycle hub, and reinstated footpaths, were seen as significant enhancements to the area.

Councillor Fraser proposed, and Councillor Srinivasan seconded, the motion to grant the application based on the officer's recommendation. The motion was carried with ten members voting in favour.

Weekly Planning Decisions

The committee resolved to note the weekly planning decisions as contained within the report. These decisions, made by officers under delegated powers, covered a range of planning applications, including householder extensions, conversions, and new builds across various wards.