Boiler flue at Flat A, 26 Fernshaw Road, Chelsea, London SW10

What was proposed

The application sought retrospective permission to retain a boiler flue on the external wall in the property’s front lightwell.

“4.The proposal and any relevant planning history 4.1Planning permission is sought for the retention of a boiler flue to an external wall on the front lightwell of the property. 4.2It is noted that an enforcement case ref: ENF/25/01126 was registered prior to the submission of this application regarding the installation of a boiler flue to the front lightwell of the property. Planning enforcement officers visited the site on 13/08/2025 and thoroughly assessed the site.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The property is a four-storey, mid-terraced building divided into three flats within the Sloane/Stanley Conservation Area.

“2.Reason for committee consideration · Three or more objections were received during the consultation period and the recommendation is to grant. 3.The site and its surroundings 3.1 The property is part of a four storey, including lower ground floor, mid-terraced property on the western side of the street. The property is divided into three flats. The property is situated within the Sloane/Stanley Conservation Area.”

Officer report

Earlier enforcement action

An enforcement case followed discovery of the boiler flue, while a separate case concerning a gas pipe remained ongoing and was excluded from this application.

“4.3The relevant planning history is set out below: ENF/25/01126Installation of Boiler Flue.Pending outcome of application PP/25/03659 ENF/25/04355Installation of a gas pipe to the front lightwell.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended permission because the modest, discreet flue preserves the conservation area and does not harm nearby living conditions.

“6.1The decisive issues are: iWhether the proposals preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the building and wider Sloane/Stanley Conservation Area. iiWhetherthe development would continue to ensure good living conditions for those living nearby. Character and Appearance 6.2The boiler flue is modest in size and scale. The flue does not materially protrude from the front elevation, which makes it to appear discreet.”

“Living Conditions 6.3 The boiler flue by its nature, scale and siting does not harm the living conditions of neighbouring living conditions in terms of light, sunlight, overlooking and privacy, and the sense of enclosure. The flue complies with policy CD9 of the Local Plan 2024. 6.4The flue is for domestic purposes and is unlikely to emit steam, noise or vibration to such an extent as to cause noise or disturbance to those living nearby.”

Officer report

What people said

Two letters supported the application and six objected, citing the flue’s appearance, condensation, noise, fumes, health risks and possible precedent.

“The flue is consistent with other features seen on nearby properties and it therefore preserves the conservation area’s character and appearance. Condensation from a domestic flue is not a planning matter. 3 Condensate steam and exhaust, noise, visual blight and disturbance and gives an industrial appearance to the front of the building. This could set a precedent if allowed. Keep the flue short and visual disturbance and condensate away from the street.”

Officer report

Who spoke

There were no speakers for this application.

The committee vote

The committee unanimously agreed to grant planning permission with the conditions listed in the report.

“Resolved unanimously: to grant planning permission with the conditions listed in Section 9 of the report.”

Minutes