The Richmond Planning Committee has approved a proposal by Moreland Residential Ltd to demolish 20 derelict garages and a one-bedroom flat, replacing them with five new dwellings.
The redevelopment will include private and communal amenity spaces, accessible parking, cycle parking, and refuse facilities. The project, designed by TAL ARC LTD and represented by Savills, aims to transform the current low-quality garage area into a more appealing residential space.
The scheme features a contemporary design with a modest scale, deemed acceptable by the Committee. Improvements to the communal courtyard, such as additional landscaping, tree planting, and biodiversity enhancements, are expected to enhance the site’s overall quality. Previous concerns about overshadowing and loss of outlook have been addressed by reducing the built form, and privacy is maintained through strategic fenestration placement and conditions for obscure glazing.
Despite the removal of four low-quality trees, the plan includes planting nine new trees. The proximity of the development to a protected sycamore tree has been managed by removing structures that could interfere with its canopy. A financial viability review indicated that the scheme could not support an affordable housing contribution, which was accepted by the Committee.
The Committee’s decision followed a history of withdrawn, refused, or dismissed applications dating back to 2001. A previous scheme approved in 2013 lapsed, and a 2022 application was refused and dismissed at appeal. The current proposal addresses the reasons for past refusals, particularly concerning the quality of residential accommodation.
Fire safety was a significant discussion point, with concerns about access to Sion Court in emergencies. Although fire safety was not a reason for previous refusals, the Committee emphasized the importance of engaging with local residents to ensure adequate emergency access. The proposal includes mechanical cooling and openable roof lights to address potential overheating issues.
The Committee highlighted the benefits of the scheme, including soft landscaping, surface water absorption, and biodiversity gains. The inclusion of green roofs is expected to prevent overheating.
Ultimately, the Committee found limited grounds for refusal, given the applicant’s efforts to address previous concerns, and approved the application with conditions regarding roof lights and fire safety engagement.
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