North Wing Courtauld Institute Of Art Somerset House Strand London WC2E 7EA

Pending 26/02831/CLLB
Council
Date received
28 Apr 2026
Date validated
28 Apr 2026
Postcode
WC2E 7EA

Description

Series of investigative works to the North Block. The proposed investigative and opening up works comprise trial pits in third party walls at basement level, the careful removal of plaster in various locations to expose the structure behind, and other physical works to open up elements of the building where required to better inform the Stage 4 design elements within the existing structural context. The locations of the opening up works have been carefully selected to ensure minimal disruption on the historic fabric, and where possible, investigations and openings are proposed in areas of twentieth century construction.

4.3/10
Planning Authority Score
#184 of 282

Westminster ranks #172 out of 282 councils for householder decision speed. Only 27% of applications have the time limit extended, well below the 40% national average - the council usually decides on time. Westminster is also one of the strictest councils - it refuses more householder applications than almost any other, with only 79% approved vs 90% nationally.

Westminster decision performance
Based on MHCLG data, 2025
86%
Overall approval rate
Below avg (87%) #193 of 282
79%
Householder approved
Below avg (90%) #268 of 282
67%
Decided in 8 weeks
Below avg (71%) #172 of 282
27%
Extended time limit
Below avg (40%) #41 of 282
86%
Minor dwellings approved
14 decided (1-9 homes)
67%
Major dwellings approved
3 decided (10+ homes)
86%
Change of use approved
140 decided
4,828
Total decisions
669 refused in 2025