The Planning Applications Committee of Lambeth Council met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 to discuss two key planning applications. The committee resolved to grant conditional planning permission for the redevelopment of Nolan's Freehouse on Wilcox Road, which will include a new public house and 14 residential units. Permission was also granted for the installation of an all-weather sports pitch and associated facilities at Bishop Thomas Grant School in Streatham.

Nolan's Freehouse, 33 Wilcox Road, London

The committee granted conditional planning permission for the mixed-use redevelopment of Nolan's Freehouse. The proposal involves demolishing the existing three-storey public house and constructing a six-storey building comprising a new public house, pub manager's accommodation, and 14 residential units. The new public house will have an increased floor space compared to the existing one, ensuring its continued contribution to the vitality of the Wilcox Road local centre. The development will also provide much-needed housing, with 14 new residential units.

While the development will result in the loss of a six-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), officers noted that the existing units were undersized and not viable to improve. The new residential units will offer a mix of sizes, including accessible accommodation, meeting identified housing needs. The scheme will be car-free, promoting sustainable travel, and will include significant contributions towards local infrastructure, including parking, cycle provision, and employment and skills initiatives.

Concerns raised by residents regarding daylight, sunlight, noise, and overlooking were addressed through design revisions and proposed planning conditions. The development's scale and massing were considered appropriate for the evolving context of Wilcox Road, aligning with the height of adjacent approved developments. The design and materials were deemed to be of high quality and sensitive to the local character.

The committee also resolved to delegate authority to the Director of Climate Change, Planning and Transport to finalise conditions and negotiate planning obligations, including review mechanisms to capture any future changes in market conditions that might allow for an affordable housing contribution.

Bishop Thomas Grant School, Belltrees Grove, London

The committee resolved to grant conditional planning permission for the development of an all-weather sports pitch (AWSP), six floodlights, a changing room building, and an Ecological Education Area (EEA) at Bishop Thomas Grant School. This development aims to significantly upgrade the school's sports facilities, providing much-needed opportunities for pupils and the wider community.

The proposal involves the removal of some trees, including a limited number of mature specimens, but no Category A, veteran, or ancient trees will be lost. The majority of the mature structural canopy will be retained, with replacement planting and a comprehensive Woodland Management Plan secured by condition. The scheme is projected to deliver a Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) exceeding the statutory 10% requirement, with enhancements to the Site's ecological value.

Concerns raised by objectors regarding noise, light spill, flood risk, and ecological impacts were addressed. The design incorporates measures to mitigate noise and light pollution, and a detailed lighting design strategy has been reviewed and deemed acceptable. A 30-year Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan will be secured to ensure the long-term ecological benefits of the scheme. The flood risk assessment and drainage strategy have been reviewed by the Lead Local Flood Authority, who raised no objections subject to conditions securing a detailed drainage strategy and management plan.

The development will provide significant public benefits, including improved sports facilities for the school and community, enhanced ecological value, and educational opportunities through the EEA. The proposal is considered to comply with the development plan and relevant material considerations, leading to the recommendation for approval, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement for BNG monitoring. The committee also delegated authority to the Director of Planning and Sustainability to finalise conditions and negotiate planning obligations.