The Planning Committee of Sutton Council met on Wednesday 04 February 2026 to discuss several planning applications. The committee considered a single-storey rear extension at 11 Overhill Road, Sutton, and amendments to an approved application at 1 Wildes Cottages, Ewell Road, Cheam. The committee also considered the London Cancer Hub development on Cotswold Road, Sutton.

11 Overhill Road, Sutton, CR8 2JD

Planning permission was granted for a single-storey rear extension at 11 Overhill Road. The application was referred to the committee because the applicant is a member of the council. Officers recommended approval, stating the development would be acceptable in land use terms, would not harm the character or appearance of the dwelling or street scene, and would not negatively impact neighbouring amenities, highways, or parking. No objections were received, and the committee agreed to skip the presentation and proceed directly to a decision based on the officer's report.

1 Wildes Cottages, Ewell Road, Cheam, SM3 8AS

The committee granted planning permission for amendments to an approved application at 1 Wildes Cottages. The amendments sought to allow for an internal garage, an internal entrance porch, and alterations to fenestration, including replacing a front window with a garage door and removing two ground-floor windows from the flank elevation. The application was referred to the committee due to over 10 objections received, contrary to the officers' recommendation for approval.

Objectors raised concerns about the impact on the character and appearance of the terrace and conservation area, the visual detriment of a garage door, and potential noise from garage door operation. Councillors debated the impact on the Cheam Village Conservation Area, with some expressing concern about the visual impact of a garage door and the number of objections received. The applicant, Mr. Bob Barrit, explained that the garage would help keep a car off the road and allow for bin storage. He also suggested a window garage door as a potential compromise. After considerable debate, the committee voted to grant planning permission.

The London Cancer Hub, Cotswold Road, Sutton, SM2 5NF

The committee granted planning permission for the London Cancer Hub development, a hybrid application seeking detailed permission for Phase 1 and outline permission for future phases. This project aims to transform the former Sutton Hospital site into a life science and healthcare district focused on cancer research and treatment.

The development includes up to 78,482 square metres of life science floorspace, amenity spaces, and 10,200 square metres of affordable key worker accommodation. Phase 1 will deliver three buildings (A1, A2, and A3) with heights ranging from four to seven storeys. The outline component includes further life science buildings, residential accommodation, a link road, and the reprovision of Belmont Allotments.

The application attracted significant public interest, with 146 representations received, split between 61% in support and 39% objecting. A petition signed by 120 households also raised objections, primarily concerning the proposed link road through the allotments.

Key areas of debate during the meeting included:

• Transport and Highways: Discussion focused on the adequacy of the transport strategy, including parking provision (limited to 300 spaces), the proposed shuttle bus service, and the impact on local roads and junctions. Concerns were raised about the reliance on public transport and cycling, and the potential for increased congestion. Officers and their consultants presented detailed modelling and mitigation measures, including junction improvements and a comprehensive travel plan.
• Allotments and Trees: The proposed link road through Belmont Allotments was a major point of contention. Objectors argued it would disrupt the allotment community and impact wildlife. The applicant stated the link road is not required for Phase 1 and would only be delivered if a future hospital or similar development necessitated it. The reprovision of allotments was to be secured through a legal agreement.
• Design and Massing: Concerns were raised about the height and massing of buildings in relation to neighbouring residential properties and the character of the area.
• Affordable Housing: The proposal for 100% affordable housing at discount market rent, prioritised for key workers within the district, was noted.
• Community Engagement: The applicant highlighted extensive pre-application engagement with stakeholders.

Despite significant debate and numerous questions from councillors and public speakers, the committee voted to grant planning permission. This decision was subject to referral to the Mayor of London and the Secretary of State, the imposition of conditions outlined in Appendix 2, and the satisfactory completion of a Section 106 agreement. A condition was added to ensure that all reserved matters applications for future phases would be brought back to the planning committee for determination.