Two family flats at 1 Albion Drive, London E8

What was proposed

The application sought two flats, a three-storey rear extension, mansard roof, lightwell, lowered garden, storage and external alterations.

“PROPOSAL: Sub-division from single family dwelling (Use Class C3) to form two separate flats (Use Class C3). Demolition of rear outbuilding, excavation to create front light well and lowered rear garden, creation of three storey stepped rear extension and mansard roof extension. External alterations to existing building including new windows to side, new metal framed glazing to rear at lower ground. New bike and bin stores, railings and gates to communal area to front…”

“Design: Materials for the proposed mansard and rear extension and windows have been revised, together with alterations to the front boundary treatment. Amenity: The roof terrace and glazing at mansard level on the east elevation have been removed. Cycle Storage: Relocated to serve Flat A (lower ground floor) and Flat B (west elevation). Waste Provision: Refuse storage reoriented away from the front boundary. Trees: An Arboricultural assessment has been submitted.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The vacant, fire-damaged Victorian property is detached, beside a school playground, within a conservation area and in a controlled parking zone.

“It was originally constructed as part of a semi detached pair but now appears detached following the construction of the adjoining schools playground. The property was historically occupied as a caretaker’s dwelling associated with the school. However, it has been vacant for a number of years and is currently in a derelict condition following fire damage.”

“The application property does not directly adjoin any residential buildings. The only structures immediately adjacent to the site are a single storey garage within the curtilage of No. Albion Square and a lightweight open structure within the school playground.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended permission because the scheme would restore a derelict home, add housing and provide acceptable design, heritage, amenity and transport outcomes.

“The proposal would bring back into use a vacant derelict property which is considered to make a positive contribution to Hackney's and London housing needs, aligning with National Planning Policy Framework, H2 of the London Plan and LP12 of the Hackney Local Plan. The proposed unit mix is deemed acceptable, including family sized units in a sustainable location satisfying requirements LP14 of the Hackney Local Plan on dwelling sized mix.”

“Regarding sustainability, conditions are proposed to secure a reduction in carbon emissions inline with Part L (2021) requirements and to maximise the efficiency of renewable energy measures provided as part of the application. The proposal would not result in harm to the trees in neighbouring properties and would provide additional landscaping and nesting for wildlife.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Transport, drainage, and tree officers raised no objections subject to conditions, while local groups raised concerns about overdevelopment, design, heritage, amenity and trees.

“Flooding and Drainage: Officers noted no objection, subject to the inclusion of a condition requiring the implementation of a sustainable drainage system.”

“Tree and Landscaping: Officers noted no objection, subject to the inclusion of conditions to submit further information…”

Officer report

Residents’ views

Eight letters supported renovation and family homes, while 40 letters objected to overdevelopment, design, privacy, school safeguarding, trees, drainage and procedure.

“The letters of support were submitted on the following grounds ● Renovation of a long-vacant/dilapidated building is welcomed which saves it from deteriorating further. ● Development and conversion of the property into two family sized units is supported.”

“Elevated vantage point overlooking the school playground results in safeguarding concerns ● Direct views into the playground and potentially into school buildings. ● Applicant failure to consult school adequately. ● Potential impact on school’s ability to provide a safe learning environment.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A councillor and three local residents spoke against the application, while the applicant’s agent spoke in support.

The decision

Planning permission was granted subject to conditions and completion of a Section 106 legal agreement.

“To grant planning permission subject to conditions and completion of a Section 106 legal agreement.”

Minutes