The Planning Applications Committee of Wandsworth Council met on Wednesday 15 April 2026 to discuss several planning applications and tree preservation orders. The committee approved a new nursing home development at Meadbank, a variation to an existing development at Ransomes Dock, and the confirmation of two Tree Preservation Orders.

Meadbank Nursing Home, 12 Parkgate Road, SW11 4NN

The committee approved the demolition of the existing Meadbank Nursing Home and its redevelopment to provide a new care facility. The proposed part four, five, and seven-storey building will accommodate up to 139 care beds and suites, with associated communal, wellness, and ancillary facilities. The decision was made subject to conditions and a Section 106 legal agreement.

Concerns were raised by councillors and consultees regarding the scale and massing of the building, its impact on neighbouring amenity, particularly daylight and sunlight, and the adequacy of parking and servicing arrangements. The Design Review Panel had previously expressed reservations about the design vision, architectural expression, and the integration of landscaping. However, officers concluded that the proposed development, despite exceeding the height parameters for the tall building zone, offered significant public benefits, including a much-needed high-quality care facility that would meet CQC standards. The development was deemed to have a low level of less-than-substantial harm to the setting of the Westbridge Road Conservation Area, and other heritage assets would remain unaffected.

The committee also discussed the provision of affordable housing, with officers concluding that the development, due to its classification as 'care home accommodation' under the London Plan, was exempt from affordable housing contributions.

Ransomes Dock Business Centre, Parkgate Road, SW11 4NP

The committee approved a variation of conditions for the Ransomes Dock Business Centre development. The application sought to amend the original planning permission to allow for a reduction in the floorspace of flexible office and gallery uses, external alterations including redesign of the southern element, changes to materials, and the provision of new terraces and a revised linking bridge. Internal alterations to flats and the basement layout, along with modifications to waste and cycle storage, relocation of the substation, and the installation of plant on the roof, green roof, and solar panels were also part of the proposal.

Concerns were raised by local residents and the Battersea Society regarding the proposed change in materials for the rooftop development from reflective cladding to a robust, red-toned metal cladding, which was felt to be overly obtrusive. The applicant argued that the new material would better complement the existing brick buildings and respond to the site's industrial character. The committee also discussed the reduction in commercial floorspace, with officers concluding that the revised scheme would be more functional and deliverable.

Tree Preservation Orders

The committee recommended the confirmation of two Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs):

• TPO 516/2025 at 12 Nicosia Road, SW18 3RN: This order protects a Canary Island Date Palm tree in the front garden of the property. An objection was received from the applicant citing concerns about damage to boundary walls and drains, but the council's tree officer deemed the tree healthy and suitable for protection.
• TPO 517/2025 at 57-61 West Hill Road, SW18 1LE: This order protects an Indian Horse Chestnut tree in the front garden. An objection was received from the applicant/agent regarding perceived damage to surfacing and drainage, but the council's tree officer reported the tree to be healthy and in good condition.

Other Business

The committee also received reports on:

• Decisions: A summary of recent planning application decisions made under delegated authority and by the committee.
• Closure of Investigation Files: A report on the closure of investigation files for alleged breaches of planning control during March 2026.
• Closed Appeals: A summary of appeals closed during March 2026, with two appeals allowed and three dismissed.