Railway arches in Hammersmith and Fulham are set to receive a modern makeover with the approval of planning permission for new commercial frontages and rear facades.
The Planning and Development Control Committee granted permission for the refurbishment of railway arches 72-76 Ranelagh Gardens. The project includes the demolition of existing rear extensions, the installation of new fencing, lighting, and wayfinding signage.
The existing yard space, previously used for car rental, will be repurposed for flexible use within Class E. Arches 72 and 73 will also be utilized for Class E commercial activities, though specific types of Class E activities are not detailed beyond this general classification.
Concerns raised by objectors included design, heritage impact, noise, opening hours, traffic, servicing, and security. Council officers addressed these by imposing conditions to control operational hours, noise, and servicing, and requiring a Construction Logistics Plan.
Operational Hours and Noise Restrictions
For railway arches 72-76 Ranelagh Gardens, strict conditions have been imposed to control operational hours and noise levels. No customers will be permitted on the commercial premises between 23:00 and 07:30, Monday to Sunday and Public/Bank Holidays. For Class E(d) uses (indoor sport, recreation or fitness), no classes can occur between 21:00 and 07:30, and no customers will be present between 23:00 and 07:30. For Class E(f) uses (creche, day nursery or day centre), no pupils or staff will be on the premises between 18:30 and 07:30, Monday to Sunday and Public/Bank Holidays.
Furthermore, external sound levels from plant and machinery must be at least 10dBA lower than existing background sound levels, assessed in accordance with BS4142:2014. Plant, machinery, or equipment will not be permitted to operate outside the hours of 07:00 to 23:00, Monday to Sunday, including Bank Holidays.
Construction Logistics Plan
A comprehensive Construction Logistics Plan (CLP) is required prior to the commencement of development. This plan must be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. It needs to adhere to Transport for London Guidance and encompass site logistics and operations, vehicle routing, estimated numbers, sizes, and routes of vehicles, the use of Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) compliant vehicles, access and egress arrangements, vehicle holding areas, traffic management, efficiency and sustainability measures, and membership of the Considerate Contractors Scheme. The CLP must be implemented and maintained throughout the construction phase. A monitoring fee for the CLP is secured via a legal agreement.
Design and Heritage Impact
Objectors had raised concerns about the design and heritage impact of the proposed works. The approved plans aim to enhance the character and appearance of the Hurlingham and Putney Bridge conservation areas. The design approach for the frontages is described as contemporary, yet intended to sit comfortably alongside the utilitarian railway architecture, offering a unified and coherent architectural treatment. New fencing to the yard space fronting the Thames Path will be visually lighter metal fencing. Improved lighting will be provided through low-spill uplighting mounted to the viaduct and repositioned downlight columns along the path, while existing heritage lighting will be retained and restored. Wayfinding signage will be improved to highlight key routes and intersections.
The removal of intrusive additions and the introduction of active frontages are considered heritage benefits. The proposal was considered to enhance the character and appearance of the Hurlingham and Putney Bridge conservation areas.
Security Measures
Security measures for the new commercial spaces include improved lighting to enhance safety and usability, particularly along the Thames Path. Inset entrances to Arches 72–74 along the Thames Path will feature concealed, flush roller shutters to prevent out-of-hours occupation. The service yard will retain existing security measures and be supplemented by a new key-coded access gate. The proposal is also expected to improve natural surveillance.
The decision was made subject to a satisfactory legal agreement and conditions. Further details can be found in the Public reports pack for the Planning and Development Control Committee meeting on 7th July 2026.
