The Planning Committee of Ealing Council was scheduled to discuss a significant outline planning application for the redevelopment of an industrial site in Greenford. The meeting also included the consideration of minor material amendments to a previously approved application in West Ealing and plans for landscaping works at a development site in Northolt.

Planning Application - Phase 1B, Field Way, Greenford Park, Central Greenford UB6 8UN

The most significant item on the agenda was an outline planning application for the redevelopment of the site at Phase 1B, Field Way, Greenford Park, Central Greenford, UB6 8UN. The proposal, identified as application reference 253638OUT, sought permission for the demolition of existing buildings and structures to create new flexible industrial floorspace (Class B2/B8/E(g)(iii)) with ancillary mezzanine and office space. This development is situated within the Greenford Industrial Estate, designated as a Strategic Industrial Location (SIL).

The report pack indicated that the proposed development would deliver up to 15,000 square metres of industrial floorspace, representing a slight reduction from the existing 15,187 square metres. However, the new units were described as more modern and efficient, with the potential to support between 214 and 416 full-time equivalent jobs. The application included development parameters for building heights, with zones designated for structures up to 24 metres high in the southern two-thirds of the site and up to 18 metres in the northern third. A landscape buffer of at least 15 metres was proposed along the western and southern boundaries.

The report highlighted that the site adjoins the Grand Union Canal, which is within the Canalside Conservation Area and is a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). While an overshadowing assessment suggested a negligible effect on the canal towpath, the Canal and River Trust raised several points for consideration at the reserved matters stage, including the need for robust assessment of visual impact and the integration of pedestrian and cycle routes. The application also noted potential impacts on heritage assets, including the locally listed Aladdin Building, with the Council's Conservation Officer concluding that there would be less than substantial harm to designated heritage assets.

Transport and parking arrangements were to be addressed at the reserved matters stage, with indicative plans showing between 95 and 97 car parking spaces and parking for approximately 28 HGVs. Ealing Transport Services and TfL sought a reduction in car parking provision and mitigation measures to improve access via active travel and public transport. The proposal included plans for a zero-carbon development, with south-facing photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps for heating and cooling office spaces, aiming for a 100% reduction in site-wide CO2 emissions.

The report recommended granting outline planning permission subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement and conditions of consent. The proposed S106 contributions totalled £383,355, intended for public realm improvements, active travel initiatives, air quality measures, travel plan monitoring, renewable energy monitoring, and employment, training, learning, and skills delivery.

Planning Application - Waitrose, 2 Alexandria Road, West Ealing W13 0NL

The committee was scheduled to consider minor material amendments to a previously approved planning application at Waitrose, 2 Alexandria Road, West Ealing, W13 0NL (application reference 254810VAR). The proposed amendments sought to vary conditions of the original permission (233076FUL) to alter the internal and external layout, relocate the store's service yard, reduce building heights in link blocks and floor-to-ceiling heights, and make changes to the façade, landscaping, and amenity space.

Key changes included an increase of 37 homes, bringing the total to 465, and the relocation of the service yard from the first floor to the ground floor. The report indicated that the new application did not increase the maximum height or massing of the development from the previous approval. Engagement with local stakeholders and residents had taken place, and no public comments were received regarding these amendments. The GLA confirmed no further strategic consideration was required. The report suggested that the amendments were proportionate refinements that improved layouts and public realm, with no new or materially different impacts. The application was recommended for approval, subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions.

Planning Application - The Transport Yard, Wood End Gardens, Northolt UB5 4QH

The committee was also set to review an application for landscaping works associated with the formation of an access road at The Transport Yard, Wood End Gardens, Northolt, UB5 4QH (application reference 250448REM). This application represented phase one of a three-phase development intended to construct 149 homes on a former transport depot.

The proposed works included hard landscaping to improve vehicle access by widening the bellmouth, creating accessible pedestrian routes, and resurfacing the access road. Soft landscaping proposals involved planting Hornbeam trees and mixed-species hedgerows, with measures to support plant establishment and a landscape management plan. The report stated that these landscaping proposals fully met required conditions and aligned with the parameters of the outline permission, supporting the site's transformation and unlocking further affordable housing. The application was recommended for approval.