Sidcup residents will soon see a new addition to their skyline as Bexley Council's Planning Committee has approved an extension to Roxby House at 20-22 Station Road, despite one councillor branding the existing building 'hideous'.
The committee granted permission for a two-storey upwards extension above the rear wing of Roxby House, to create six self-contained residential units. The plans also include a side extension to the existing overrun at roof level, associated cycle parking, waste storage, amenity space, and replacement windows to the existing building's facade.
The decision, made at a meeting of the Planning Committee on Thursday, 3 July 2025, wasn't without reservations. Councillor Jackson didn't mince words, stating that the building was 'hideous'. However, he conceded that he could 'not see any reason to object to the plan'.
Other councillors echoed this sentiment. Councillor Smith enquired if the image provided was the best representation of the building's future appearance, questioning whether it would remain a 'grey monstrosity'. Councillor Taylor agreed with Councillor Jackson's assessment, stating that she 'agreed with Councillor Jackson that the building was hideous'.
Despite the aesthetic concerns, the committee focused on the planning merits of the application. Officers clarified that the facade updates would include updates to the windows and reducing the level of glazing. They also confirmed that the proposal had met the London Plan space standards.
Councillor Brooks noted, 'it couldn't look worse, and that the straddling would be an improvement'.
Officers also addressed concerns about potential construction congestion, stating that there would be a management and logistics plan to manage construction-associated vehicle movements and parking.
Officers confirmed that they would amend condition three to have more control over the final colour and finish of the external piece.
Ultimately, the committee voted to approve the application, subject to a moderately adjusted condition three.
For more details on the application, you can view the full Public Reports Pack from the meeting.
