Kensington and Chelsea Council has approved the installation of air source heat pumps (ASHPs) at properties in Holland Park and Queensdale Walk, as part of its commitment to promoting energy efficiency and low-carbon heating solutions. The decision was made during a meeting of the Planning Applications Committee on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, where councillors considered a range of planning and advertisement consent applications.
The committee granted planning permission for the installation of two air source heat pump units at 67 Holland Park and one unit at 8 Queensdale Walk. The approvals are subject to conditions designed to minimize noise and protect the living conditions of nearby residents. These conditions include noise limits and anti-vibration mounts for the units.
During the meeting, Cllr Emma Dent Coad raised concerns about the potential noise levels of ASHPs compared to air conditioners. An officer responded that the applications were supported by noise reports demonstrating compliance with the council's noise standards. Condition three, relating to background noise, would ensure the units are not audible at nearby residential properties.
Other key decisions from the meeting included the refusal of planning permission for a mansard roof extension at Palace Place Mansions, due to design concerns and fire safety issues. Michael Bach, chair of the planning committee of the Kensington Society, argued that the application was highly misleading and confusing because it seeks to evade scrutiny by denying that it involves two additional stories and, secondly, designing them to evade triggering requirements for scrutinizing fire safety.
The committee also approved listed building consent for the replacement of flat entrance doors at Kensal House to meet current fire regulations and approved planning permission for a change of use at Oakley House to create two class E units.