Tower block safety changes at Davall House Greenwood House And Butler House, Grays

What was proposed

The application sought changes to approved refurbishment plans and materials across three blocks to meet Building Regulations on fire performance.

“This is a Thurrock Council s 73 condition variation planning application seeking planning permission for the variation of condition nos 2 (Approved Plans) and 3 (Materials) of planning permission ref.”

“PROPOSAL: Application for the variation of condition nos 2 (Approved Plans) and 3 (Materials) of planning permission ref 20/00409/TBC [Replacement of the external wall coverings, replacement of windows, replacement of communal entrance canopies, installation of new external lighting and installation of new roof guardrails] at Davall House Greenwood House And Butler House to reflect an amended design necessary to meet Building Regulations regarding fire performance.”

Officer report

The site

The site contains three broadly identical tower blocks on the western corner of Argent Street and Sherfield Road.

“The application site is an L-shaped area of land on the western corner of Argent Street and Sherfield Road. The surrounding area features a variety of uses including residential properties, pubs and cafés, open parkland and Thurrock Learning Campus…”

“The site comprises three, broadly identical, 12-storey tower blocks, namely Davall House, Greenwood House and Butler House.”

Officer report

Earlier permission

An earlier permission approved replacement wall coverings, windows and entrance canopies, new external lighting and roof guardrails.

“Replacement of the external wall coverings, replacement of windows, replacement of communal entrance canopies, installation of new external lighting and installation of new roof guardrails Approved…”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the changes necessary for fire and thermal safety, with improved appearance and no harmful effect on neighbours.

“The amendments to the previously approved scheme are necessary to meet Building Regulations regarding fire performance including the passive fire and smoke strategy, meet Building Regulations for thermal performance, improve safety and security for residents. The new scheme utilises the same palette, namely light and dark grey.”

“The application continues to improve the appearance and character of the existing properties, resulting in a more modern style and of a high quality design. The appearance of the blocks continues to be improved, and the development preserves the character of both the existing buildings and the wider area. The development therefore complies with Policies CSTP22, CSTP23 and PMD2, associated design guidance and the NPPF.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Building Control considered the works compliant in principle subject to certification, while no public objections were received.

“The works as described in the variation of condition application are currently being assessed for Building Control approval under separate Building Regulations submission. The works as described comply in principle subject to final commissioning certification.”

“The application was advertised via individual neighbour letter, press notice and a site notice was erected nearby. No representations have been received.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Officers presented the application and advised members about the proposed condition changes and their fire-safety purpose.

Committee discussion

Members had no further questions or debate before considering the recommendation.

“There were no further questions or debate.”

“Recommendation That the Chief Planning Officer be authorised to GRANT planning permission for the development subject to those reasons set out in section 16 of the report.”

Minutes

The decision

Planning permission was granted because the amendments were considered necessary, proportionate and acceptable in design, appearance and amenity terms.

“In conclusion, the amendments for which permission is sought are considered to be both necessary and proportionate, responding directly to fire safety requirements while keeping changes to the building’s appearance to a minimum. The scheme is acceptable in terms of design, appearance, and amenity impacts and complies with Policies CSTP22, CSTP23 PMD1 and PMD2 of the Core Strategy 2015.”

“APPROVE, subject to the following conditions:”

Officer report