Agenda item
WILLESDEN GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH, High Road, London, NW10 2PR (Ref. 17/3673)
Minutes:
PROPOSAL: Demolition of the existing adjoining structures to the rear; erection of a part two and part three storey rear extension including basement level; internal alterations to create new mezzanine and upper floor levels to facilitate the creation of 7 residential units (1 x 1bed, 4 x 2bed & 2 x 3bed); 7No. dormer windows to the east and west roof slopes; new access gates to facilitate vehicle and pedestrian access from Huddlestone Road; alterations to fenestration including new front access door to residential units; removal of part of front boundary wall; and provision of secure storage for 14 cycles for the residential units and refuse facilities to serve both residential and church buildings.
RECOMMENDATION: That the Head of Planning be granted delegated authority to issue the planning permission and impose conditions (and informatives) to secure the matters set out within the report.
That the Head of Planning be granted delegated authority to make changes to the wording of the Committee’s decision (such as to delete, vary or add conditions, informatives, planning obligations or reasons for the decision) prior to the decision being actioned, provided that the Head of Planning is satisfied that any such changes could not reasonably be regarded as deviating from the overall principle of the decision reached by the Committee nor that such change(s) could reasonably have led to a different decision having been reached by the Committee.
Damian Manhertz (Area Planning Team Leader) introduced the scheme and answered members’ questions.
Matthew Bright raised concerns about the application in respect of increased noise, congestion and anti-social behaviour (ASB) particularly from the youth club within the street outside the church. In response to members’ questions, Mr Bright stated that although the situation had improved further to Police intervention and that it had not occurred recently, he was fearful of the prospect from increased activities in the Church with associated increase in numbers of people in the street and thus encouraging more ASB. In response to members’ questions Mr Bright stated that his concern was not against the principle of the development but rather the ASB which may return with the increased use of the Church hall for youth activities on Fridays.
Patrick Hannon (objector) speaking in a similar vein added that the proposed development which would involve excavation, would be cause vibration to the detriment of the residents of Huddlestone Road, potentially causing damage to their homes. He also raised concerns about highways issues.
In accordance with the provisions of the Planning Code of Practice, Councillor Jones (ward member) stated that she had been approached by residents. Councillor Jones stated that the construction of the basement would cause destruction and that the proposal would cause overlooking to the neighbouring properties in particular Faith Court. She suggested that the “Pay and Display” should be changed to “Residents Parking Only” in order to minimise parking impact of the development and that officials of the church and the residents should liaise to iron out any differences they may have about the proposal.
Reverend Paul Akinola and Steve Ibbotson (applicant’s architect) addressed the Committee. Reverend Akinola explained that the proposed expansion of the Church was to upgrade it to comply with modern requirements and to meet the increasing demands for a growing congregation. He added that the proposed dwelling units would be sympathetic to the character of the area. The architect added that the proposed use of the basement would be integral to the church’s activities, providing in addition, shower facilities and a storage area for clothes donated to the church. He continued that the church had agreed with the residents of Faith Court to install gates to the rear of the Church. He explained that the anti-social behaviour was associated with a group who were no longer using the premises, and that those issues had not occurred since 2010.
During discussion, a member suggested the addition of a construction management plan, further details of the gates to the rear (either set further back from the footway or management procedures in place for times when they are faulty) and an informative to ensure that damage to public realm was repaired.
In summing up, Damian Manhertz the principle of the development had been established and that informatives had been added to best manage any potential problems that may result.
DECISION: Granted planning permission as recommended subject to considerate construction, construction management plan and further details for gates to the rear of the church
(Voting for approval was unanimous as follows: For 8, Against 0 and Abstain 0)
Supporting documents: