Sidcup residents voiced their concerns over a proposed new two-storey home at a Bexley Council planning committee meeting on Thursday, citing parking and design issues. The application, for land adjacent to 11 Black Horse Road, would see existing garages demolished to make way for the new dwelling.
Residents fear the development will exacerbate existing parking problems on the narrow residential road. The committee ultimately voted to refuse the application, citing design concerns and potential parking pressures. The proposed development also fell short of the maximum parking provision of one space, according to the planning report. The London Plan sets the parking standards, but committee members noted their limited power to alter them.
During the meeting, Ms Ellis, speaking on behalf of residents, highlighted the road's existing parking difficulties. She said the road is already overcrowded and that construction equipment would cause significant disruption. She also noted the lack of room for storing building materials.
Another resident, Mr Norman, whose partner lives next door to the proposed development, raised concerns about potential damage to the foundations of the adjacent house, which dates back to 1890. He also claimed the applicant's primary motivation was to increase the land value rather than develop the site.
Mr Kelly, the planning agent representing the applicant, countered that the development site is brownfield land in a sustainable location and that the proposed dwelling would meet the needs of wheelchair accessibility. He acknowledged the site's constraints but argued the design was sensitive and avoided adverse long-term impacts.
Councillor Slaughter, a ward councillor, echoed residents' concerns about parking and criticised the proposed design as unsympathetic to the local character. She argued that the flat roof design did not fit in with the surrounding charming houses. Councillor Davey agreed, stating the design was totally out of character
.
Mr Hughes, presenting the application, noted that the Highway Authority had raised no objection subject to conditions. He also addressed concerns about bin storage.
Councillor Jackson questioned the data suggesting lower car ownership in the area, suggesting it might be due to existing parking difficulties. Councillor Smith supported Councillor Slaughter's concerns about the design and parking, arguing that the development did not meet its maximum parking provision.
Councillor Sandhu inquired about implementing permit holder parking and the necessity of a logistics plan. Officers clarified that permit changes were separate and that a construction management plan would be required.
Ultimately, the committee voted against the officer's recommendation for approval. With a tied vote, the chairman, Councillor Readers, did not use his casting vote. As such, the application was refused.
