The Planning Sub-Committee (1) of Westminster Council met on Tuesday 02 December 2025 to discuss several planning applications and Tree Preservation Orders. Key decisions included the refusal of an application to amalgamate two flats at 22 Palace Court, the approval of a temporary parklet outside Marylebone Library, the granting of listed building consent for works at 5 Upper Belgrave Street, and the confirmation of two Tree Preservation Orders.

Amalgamation of Flats at 22 Palace Court Refused

The committee refused planning permission for the amalgamation of flats 7 and 8 at 22 Palace Court, London, W2 4HU. The proposal sought to combine the two existing flats into a single larger four to five-bedroom duplex apartment, creating a unit of 227.5 square metres. Officers recommended refusal on land use grounds, citing that the proposed amalgamation would result in the loss of an existing family-sized unit and create a dwelling exceeding the 200 square metre limit stipulated in Policy 8B of the City Plan 2019-2040. While the applicant argued that the existing study in flat 7 was essential for their family's needs and that the proposed size was necessary due to the building's historic layout, officers maintained that the current configuration of flat 7 already met the criteria for family housing. The committee agreed with the officer's recommendation, refusing the application.

Temporary Parklet Approved for Marylebone Street

Planning permission was granted for the installation of a temporary parklet across two parking spaces outside Marylebone Library, 9 New Cavendish Street, London, W1G 9UQ. The parklet, proposed by the Harley Street Business Improvement District, is intended to provide an accessible seating and rest area for a 12-month period. While highways raised an objection due to the loss of parking, officers considered the temporary nature of the proposal and the public benefits of enhanced public realm and greening to outweigh the harm. Concerns raised by residents regarding anti-social behaviour, litter, and noise were addressed through design amendments, including lockable furniture and a commitment from the Harley Street BID to manage the parklet daily. The committee approved the application with conditions, including a 12-month time limit and the requirement for a management plan.

Listed Building Consent Granted for 5 Upper Belgrave Street

The committee granted listed building consent for works at 5 Upper Belgrave Street, London, SW1X 8BD. This application was brought back to the committee as a decision had not been made on the listed building consent application when planning permission was refused in November 2025. The proposal involves the excavation of two basements, one beneath the main house and one beneath the mews building, for a swimming pool, gym, and associated plant. Officers recommended approval for the listed building consent, stating that the proposed works would have a negligible impact on the special architectural or historic interest of the Grade II* listed building, as the mews building is unlisted and the subterranean nature of the basements would not affect the spatial hierarchy or external appearance of the main house. The committee agreed, granting consent subject to conditions.

Tree Preservation Orders Confirmed

The committee confirmed two Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs):

• TPO 725 (2025) for 14 Wilton Place, London, SW1X 8RL: This TPO protects an Evergreen Magnolia tree. Objections were received from the property owner and a neighbour citing damage to paving, railings, and a lightwell. The council's Arboricultural Officer concluded that while some damage was evident, it was not sufficiently severe to justify the tree's removal, and that repairs and regular maintenance could mitigate the issues. The committee voted to confirm the TPO, meaning it will remain in effect permanently.
• TPO 724 (2025) for 55 Carlton Hill, London, NW8 0EN: This TPO protects two Cider gum trees. Objections were raised by the owner of 3 Ryder's Terrace, who claimed the trees were causing subsidence damage to their property. The council's Arboricultural Officer found that there was inadequate evidence of damage and that a structural engineer's report was required to definitively link the trees to the alleged issues. The committee voted to confirm the TPO, requiring further evidence to be provided should any future applications for works to the trees be submitted.

Internal Alterations at Rossetti House Approved

Planning permission and listed building consent were granted for internal alterations and the installation of slimline double-glazing at Flat 3, Rossetti House, Erasmus Street, London, SW1P 4HT. The proposal includes replacing single-glazed windows with double-glazed units and undertaking internal works such as demolishing and rebuilding partition walls to create new bathrooms and a kitchen. Officers noted that some internal demolition had already occurred without consent. Despite objections from neighbours regarding heritage impact, construction disturbance, and potential leaks, officers concluded that the works would have a neutral impact on the Grade II listed building's special interest and the Millbank Conservation Area. The committee approved the applications, subject to conditions.