The Planning Committee of Islington Council met on Tuesday 21 April 2026 to discuss several planning applications. Key decisions included the approval of a six-storey office and retail development at 63 Charterhouse Street, the approval of a new veterinary centre at 348-356 Holloway Road, and the approval of a 29-dwelling residential building at the former Harvist Under Fives site on Hornsey Road.

63 Charterhouse Street

The committee approved the partial demolition and redevelopment of 63 Charterhouse Street to create a six-storey building with office and retail space. The proposal includes retaining the front facade of the existing building and constructing a new build element over former railway sidings. Concerns were raised regarding the height exceeding local conservation area guidelines and a technical breach of the St. Paul's Heights grid, but officers concluded that the impact on heritage assets and views of St. Paul's Cathedral would be negligible. Affordable workspace provision was deemed unviable on-site or as a payment in lieu, but a late-stage viability review mechanism was agreed. The development was recommended for approval, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement.

348-356 Holloway Road

A change of use application for 348-356 Holloway Road to a mixed-use veterinary centre, cafe, and retail space was approved. The locally listed building will house a 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital, creating up to 100 jobs. Concerns were raised by objectors regarding servicing access and potential bio-safety issues, but the applicant outlined robust infection control measures. The council's planning officers deemed the use appropriate for the town centre location, and the benefits of bringing a vacant building back into use and creating jobs were considered to outweigh potential negative impacts. A Section 106 agreement will secure planning obligations, including affordable workspace contributions and veterinary training placements.

Harvist Under Fives, Hornsey Road

The committee approved the erection of a four to six-storey building at the former Harvist Under Fives site on Hornsey Road to provide 29 new dwellings. The development will include 51.7% affordable housing, with 11 units for social rent and four for shared ownership. The scheme was praised for its design, materials, and landscaping, which will include a significant area of public realm and play space. While there were some concerns raised about the impact on daylight and sunlight to neighbouring properties, these were deemed acceptable within the urban context. The development will be car-free, with ample cycle storage provided. The approval is subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement.

The meeting also noted the departure of Councillor Diarmaid Ward, thanking him for his contributions to planning and housing during his 12 years on the council.