Nursery in listed building at Croxley House, Croxley Green, Rickmansworth

“Description of Proposed Development 3.1 The applicant is seeking full planning permission and listed building consent for the change of use of the existing building from a care home (Class C2) to a nursery (Class E (f)) including partial demolition of the existing extension and construction of two storey extension, provision of spiral stairs, ramp access, green roof, rooflights and vents, repair to boundary wall with associated parking and landscaping works, widening of…”

“To the east of the building, there is an existing stepped roof form at two storey level described on elevation as a ‘late Victorian addition’. As part of the development, the stepped roof form would be removed, resulting in the formation of one single consolidated flat roof form which would remain subordinate to the main roof form of Croxley House. The applicant is also proposing to remove the existing flat roofed porch canopy to the southern elevation.”

“(Use Class C3) residential units with associated bike store, parking and landscaping works. Application permitted April 2026. Permission not implemented. Description of Application Site 2.1 Croxley House is a Grade II Listed Building located within the Croxley Green Conservation Area and the Metropolitan Green Belt.”

“Croxley House is currently vacant and is in need of maintenance and repair works. The redevelopment for use as a nursery (which is already an established business) would secure and safeguard the viability and future of the Listed Building and would ensure that it continues to contribute positively to the Conservation Area. Significant weight should be attached to putting the building to a viable use and to maintaining the building for the future.”

“The plans would also result in the removal of a number of obsolete features across the elevations of Croxley House and the rationalising services and drainage runs. The above are all viewed to be enhancements and would weigh in favour of the scheme. In addition, the amended plans indicate the rationalisation of the stepped roof form to the existing link to the eastern extension which is viewed positively.”

“The benefits to the local economy and community are also clear, providing additional jobs and supporting productivity of parents who are then able to return to work.”

“Imperative to provide access to early years provision, to ensure that children have best start to life, and for parents to be able to access high quality childcare to return to work and support the local infrastructure. Without this, does the Local Authority have alternative plans to support working parents and support the growth and education of the youngest stakeholders in the community.”

“The application was considered together with the associated planning application at the previous agenda item.”

“A Committee Member expressed the view that the application improved the nature of the listed building, as well as preserving and enhancing its character. This was endorsed by another Committee Member.”

“Councillor Cooper moved, and Councillor Mitchell seconded, that Listed Building Consent be granted, subject to conditions.”

“On being put to the vote this was carried, the voting being unanimous.”

“That Listed Building Consent be granted subject to conditions.”

“C8 Prior to the installation of the pedestrian access gate, full details including scaled plans of the pedestrian gate including its appearance, material and method of fixing shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The gate shall thereafter be installed only in accordance with the details approved by this condition.”

“C11 Prior to the installation of the green roof, a rolling schedule of landscaping maintenance and review shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The schedule shall include details of the arrangement for its implementation. The green roof shall be maintained in accordance with the approved schedule.”