Southwark Council's Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) has approved upgrades to the Dulwich Tennis Club's clubhouse, marking a significant step forward for the local sports facility.
The committee reviewed the application for 10 Gallery Road, which includes the demolition of an existing shed, refurbishment of the clubhouse, erection of a lean-to, a single-storey side extension, accessibility alterations, plant equipment, additional cycle storage, and landscaping. The applicant has proposed to introduce a small bike store, which is viewed positively and will help to encourage additional active travel to and from the site.
The project aims to modernise the facilities while preserving the character of the Dulwich Village Conservation Area. The site, which lies within metropolitan open land, currently features a clubhouse and eight tennis courts. The existing clubhouse is a single-storey building constructed in 1986.
Specific accessibility alterations are planned, including changes to site access and egress. Further details can be found in drawing 633 P 52 ACCESSIBILITY PLAN SITE PROPOSED (Rev: REV P1) 02/10/2025 and 633 P 53 ACCESSIBILITY PLAN CLUBHOUSE AND EXTENSION: PROPOSED (Rev: REV P1) 02/10/2025 in the report pack for 10 Gallery Road.
According to the report for 10 Gallery Road, the proposed development is in general compliance with planning policy. The main considerations included land use, design, heritage assets, and neighbouring amenity.
Landscaping improvements are also planned, including resurfacing existing non-permeable hard standing with permeable resin bound gravel. Further works are proposed to improve accessibility and path gradients across the site, and habitat enhancement works are also proposed but these are discussed separately within the biodiversity net gain section and will be secured via condition.
The Design and Conservation Team raised no objections to the proposed development, subject to conditions. The specific conditions are securing detail designs for windows and doors, and material samples for the new extension. The committee agreed that the proposed development preserves the character and appearance of the conservation area.
The supplemental agenda included a letter of support from the Dulwich Society, highlighting their aims to foster and safeguard the amenities of Dulwich and expressing their support for the refurbishment and upgrade of the existing clubhouse.
With the planning permission granted, Dulwich Tennis Club is set to enhance its facilities, providing improved amenities for its members and contributing to the local community.
