138 new homes at Car Park, Como Street, Romford

138 new homes on a car park site

The application sought a mixed-use, residential-led redevelopment of a car park to deliver 138 new homes, commercial and community space, and improvements to a nearby river.

“The Committee received a presentation on the comprehensive redevelopment of the land at Car Park, Como Street, Romford for a mixed- use development which is residential led and would deliver up to 138 new homes comprising 3 houses and 135 flats as well as flexible commercial and community floorspace, public and private open space, River Rom improvements, landscaping and other benefits.”

Minutes

Objectors feared harm to the area

Objectors said the scheme would harm the character of a quiet residential area and the setting of a nearby listed building, questioning the planning process and timing of new documents.

“The objector stated that the proposal would have a significant detrimental impact on the character of Lower Mawney, which was described as a long- established, quiet residential area. Concerns were raised regarding the precedent that approval could set for similar developments across the borough, the potential impact on residential amenity, and the relevance and status of planning policy documents referred to in the assessment of the application.”

“The Committee also heard from a second speaker on behalf of the Como Street Action Group. The speaker introduced herself as a local resident, owner of the Grade II listed building at 98-102 North Street, and senior partner of a business occupying the premises. She corrected what she considered to be an inaccuracy in the officer's report stating that the Action Group had never agreed to or accepted a seven-storey development.”

Minutes

The applicant's agent set out the benefits

The applicant's representative said the tallest building had been reduced from 14 to 9 storeys after extensive consultation, and cited over £4 million in funding for local infrastructure.

A ward councillor objected

A ward councillor objected, citing harm to the area's historic character and a nearby listed building, loss of the car park, lack of affordable housing, and urged refusal.

Members queried privacy and access

Members queried overlooking of neighbouring homes and access arrangements, and officers said separation distances exceeded standard guidelines and access would be retained where needed.

“During general debate, Members sought clarification regarding access arrangements within the proposed pedestrianised area adjacent to the River Rom, particularly in relation to servicing, deliveries and disabled access.”

“Members raised concerns regarding overlooking and privacy impacts on neighbouring properties particularly those on Linden Street. Officers advised that the proposed buildings had been designed with substantial separation distances, with the nearest residential windows being approximately 47 metres apart, significantly exceeding standard privacy guidelines.”

Minutes

Decision deferred

The committee voted unanimously to defer its decision to allow more time to review the documentation submitted.

“The Committee voted unanimously to defer determination of the application. Members agreed that a deferral would provide residents and interested parties with additional time to review and consider the documentation submitted in support of the proposal, reflect on the information presented, and allow the application to be brought back to the Committee for further consideration at a future meeting.”

Minutes