Agenda item

Joel Holland, presented the planning application for the property at 41-49 Stirling Road, Acton, W3 8DJ. The proposed development entails the demolition of existing structures and the construction of a mixed-use development featuring the following components:

·       943 sqm of industrial floorspace (an 11% increase compared to the existing)

·       51 new residential dwellings

·       A building height of 12 storeys

·       Communal amenity and children’s play spaces on rooftop areas

·       Ancillary refuse and cycling storage.

The committee was recommended to grant planning permission, subject to a Stage 2 referral to the Mayor of London and the satisfactory completion of a legal agreement under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) and section 278 of the Highways Act 1980 to secure the outlined items.

This application, seeking full planning permission, involved the demolition of the existing industrial building and the erection of a mixed-use building with a maximum height of 12 storeys. The ground and first floor levels will house industrial space spanning 943 sqm. From the second floor and above, a total of 51 homes were proposed, offering a diverse mix of housing types. The scheme aligns with the co-location principles established by Policy E7 of the London Plan, contributing to an 11% increase in industrial space, meeting the needs of E(g)(iii)/B2 and B8 use classes.

While previous schemes adhered to a superseded Hawkins/Brown Masterplan, the current proposal aligns with the recently ratified South Acton Locally Significant Industrial Site (LSIS) Masterplan initiated by the Council. The Agent of Change principle has been considered, and with recommended conditions, it was believed that industrial and residential used can coexist without compromising the viability of LSIS.

The proposed residential units adhere to various planning policies, ensuring good quality living conditions, compliant floor spaces, adequate access to daylight and sunlight, and measured addressing noise and air quality concerns. The Affordable Housing offer meets policy requirements, with a total provision of 37.4% by Habitable Room (35.2% by unit) and a tenure split favouring London Affordable Rent over Shared Ownership.

The design of the development was of high quality, contributing positively to the local character. It included variations and articulations to activate frontages on Bollo Lane and Stirling Road, enhancing safety and visual interest. Transport and Highways considerations include a car-free scheme, cycle parking, and proximity to public transport nodes. Footpath improvements and on-street servicing will be secured through a s278 agreement.

The Council's Energy Consultant supports the proposed Energy Strategy, anticipating a significant reduction in site-wide CO2 emissions. Carbon offset and energy monitoring contributions have been secured.

In summary, the proposed development aligns with the Council's priorities, vision, and strategy, delivering more industrial capacity in a modern and flexible housing offer. Approval was recommended, subject to a Stage II referral to the Mayor of London and the completion of s106 and s278 agreements.

Leo Hall, an objector to the development, made a representation to the

Committee which included the following key points:

·       that there were concerns with the development increasing the rent of local trading estates

·       that there were concerns with the architecture of the building and

·       that the current developments feel overbearing

Harry de Lotbiniere, on behalf of the applicant, spoke in favour of the application.

The representation made the following key points:

·       that the development was designed to follow neighbouring developments 

·       that the development was at a high quality, and

·       that the development enhanced commercial spaces

In response to questions from the committee, Mr Holland confirmed that the development being close to residential properties meant that building needs to be appropriate. Development will be subject to environmental control, if there were any concerns from residents, the council could step in. Mr Holland also commented that Residential refuse will continue with regular hours and that sound insulation should address any noise pollution concern.

Members of the committee commented that there was concern of traffic in the area, however, the focus on film and TV was welcomed, it was well designed, and that there were positive views on the green space.

RESOLVED:

That for the reasons set out in the committee report, planning permission for application REF 224830FUL be GRANTED subject to:

1.     Stage II referral to the Mayor of London

2.     The satisfactory completion of a legal agreement under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended)

3.     Section 278 of the Highways Act 1980