The Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee of Wandsworth Council met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to discuss several planning applications and recent decisions. The committee unanimously objected to the proposed development at 1 to 29 Danebury Avenue, Roehampton, citing concerns over the bulk, massing, and impact on views. They also provided comments on the proposed works at Battersea Power Station and the erection of a new dwelling at land adjoining 99 Derrington Road, raising reservations about the impact on heritage and character.

Roehampton Estates Development

The committee unanimously objected to the hybrid planning application for a mixed-use development at 1 to 29 Danebury Avenue, Roehampton, which includes the construction of affordable homes and non-residential floorspace for a new library, youth centre, community hall, council offices, and a healthcare facility. The committee's primary concerns were the adverse effect arising from the bulk and massing of the proposed buildings, which were considered to be taller and wider than existing structures in the area. They also felt the development would negatively impact views, particularly down Medfield Street and across Roehampton Village, thereby altering the character of the area. While noting a net gain of 45 affordable units, the committee expressed reservations about the quality of the proposed architecture and questioned the plans for the old library building, stressing that any change of use should consider its unique character. The committee also voiced concern that the new community building would provide services already available in the area. The application was due to be considered by the Planning Applications Committee on 12 March 2026, and the committee's comments would be submitted as a late item.

Battersea Power Station Chimney Lift Experience

The committee provided comments on the application for structures, furniture, and an illuminated sign within Turbine Hall A of Battersea Power Station, associated with the 'Chimney Lift Experience'. It was noted that the structures were already in place and required listed building consent. The committee expressed disappointment that the applicant had not engaged more constructively with officers during the pre-application stage, despite advice being given regarding concerns about the enclosure of the space and its impact on the turbine hall's spatial qualities. While some members understood the need to advertise the lift experience due to poor wayfinding within the power station, others felt the interventions did not adequately address these issues and could set a harmful precedent for future developments. Overall, the committee had reservations about the extent of development on the balcony and its impact on the interior of the turbine hall, encouraging the applicant to re-engage with officers to seek amendments.

New Dwelling at Land Adjoining 99 Derrington Road

The committee provided comments on the application for the erection of a single-storey dwelling at land adjoining 99 Derrington Road. While acknowledging some positive aspects, the committee felt certain areas warranted further attention. A significant concern was the potential precedent for development on corner sites within the Totterdown Fields estate, which is characterised by buffer land. The height of the proposed perimeter brick wall was also a concern, with the committee suggesting there was scope to reduce it. Reservations were also expressed regarding the materials proposed for the brick wall, with a suggestion that the applicant should better align with the character of the site and conservation area. The committee queried the proposed floor-to-ceiling height of the dwelling, suggesting that a reduction could allow for a lower boundary wall. Modifications to the roof structure were also recommended, with a preference for the pitched roof to be more clearly expressed and to better match the pitch of existing houses. The committee requested that officers work proactively with the applicant to improve the scheme before approval.

Decisions on Previous Applications

The committee noted the report on recent decisions made by the Planning Applications Committee and the Head of Development Management. The Chair expressed disappointment that planning permission had been granted by delegated authority for two applications previously considered by the committee: 89 Thurleigh Road and Chivalry Hall. The committee's objections in these cases were noted as having been rejected.

Future Meeting Dates and Local Listing Consultation

The committee noted the scheduled dates for future meetings. The Principal Conservation and Urban Design Officer provided an update on the local listing consultation, which had been temporarily paused but was set to recommence and go out for public consultation after the local elections. Additionally, the decision on the appeal for Mount Clare, which had been subject to a public inquiry, was received, and the application had been dismissed, which was considered a positive outcome for the council.