Pool Court residents have voiced strong objections to plans for a traveller site on Fordmill Road, Lewisham. The proposal, reference number DC/24/136404, involves the creation of pitches for up to three traveller families, including modular homes and utility buildings.
The application was discussed at a Lewisham Planning Committee A meeting on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, after objections from the Culverley Green Residents Association. The proposed site is a triangular plot of fallow and wooded land at the northern end of Pool Court, adjacent to railway lines and the River Ravensbourne. Image of the proposed traveller site at Pool Court, showing existing conditions and proposed development.
While the site is allocated for gypsy and traveller accommodation in the emerging local plan, residents have raised concerns. Objections include fears that the site is out of character with Pool Court,
which is largely populated by pensioners and vulnerable women and children, and that it will result in anti-social behaviour and crime.
Other concerns involve increased noise, degradation of a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), increased air pollution, and the impact on local schools' capacity.
Despite the objections, planning officers have recommended that planning permission be granted, subject to conditions. They stated that they raise no in principle objection to the proposed development, which accords with the emerging plan's site allocation, to which substantial weight is given.
The officers also noted that the proposal aligns with the National Planning Policy Framework and the London Plan in addressing the housing needs of specific groups, including travellers. Conditions were recommended to mitigate potential impacts on the environment and neighbouring properties.
The committee also discussed other planning applications, including a proposal for a four-storey building at 29 Wynell Road and a retrospective application for a terrace at Skehans Freehouse, 1 Kitto Road.