The Planning Applications Committee of Kensington and Chelsea Council met on Tuesday 28 April 2026 to consider a planning application for Cremorne Wharf Depot Foreshore. The committee granted planning permission for a temporary change of use of the safeguarded wharf from waste use to a public open space, subject to conditions and a legal agreement.

Cremorne Wharf Depot Foreshore: Temporary Public Open Space

The committee considered an application for a time-limited planning permission to change the use of Cremorne Wharf Depot Foreshore from its current safeguarded wharf status for waste use to a public open space. This application was referable to the Mayor of London due to the safeguarded nature of the wharf. The proposal focuses on the existing hard standing area of the wharf, excluding the pier.

Policy GB15 of the local plan supports the creation of a new meanwhile open space at the wharf until it is brought back into wharf use. The London Plan also permits temporary uses on safeguarded wharfs, provided they do not hinder future reuse for waterborne freight handling.

The proposed public open space is designed to be temporary, featuring movable structures and painted concrete to delineate different zones for play, informal sports, and social areas. The design includes retaining the existing access from Lott's Road and creating a new access on the western boundary, which would connect to the Thames Path. Planting and benches are also included, all designed to be movable. A pending legal agreement will ensure continued access for Thames Water.

Concerns raised by the Port of London Authority were addressed by officers, who recommended conditions for a temporary five-year permission and a method statement for reinstatement to wharf use. The agreed Heads of Terms for the legal agreement also aim to facilitate the future reactivation of the wharf.

During the discussion, councillors raised questions regarding the planting, which will be in planters due to restrictions from the Thames Tideway Tunnel beneath. The biodiversity net gain was discussed, with officers confirming that while the site currently has no natural features, the proposal would provide a betterment and enhancement, meeting the 10% net gain requirement. The standard of imported soils was also confirmed to have undergone review for land contamination, with a condition recommended for unexpected contamination.

Consultation with local residents was highlighted as robust, with ward councillors actively engaging the community. No objections were received from the public. The quality of the proposed entrance gates was also a point of discussion, with a condition requiring further details to ensure a high-quality finish.

The recommendation to grant planning permission, subject to the specified conditions and legal undertakings, was agreed by the committee. This decision will be subject to referral to the Greater London Authority (GLA) due to the wharf's protected status.