Greenwich Council has approved plans for six new homes on land to the rear of Vicarage Park, Plumstead, despite numerous objections from local residents. The decision was made by the Local Planning Committee on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
Objections raised by residents included concerns about flood risk, construction impacts, accessibility for wheelchair users, loss of trees, harm to the Plumstead Common Conservation Area, overdevelopment, loss of wildlife habitat, and fire safety. Concerns about subsidence and the adequacy of ecological and flood risk surveys were also voiced.
However, the committee granted planning permission for the development, which will transform a derelict site into much-needed family homes. The applicant's agent, Max Plotnick, stated that the scheme would exceed tree protection standards and fire safety regulations. Regarding fire safety, the report notes that London Fire Brigade has reviewed the scheme in full and raised no objection. Each home has an independent escape route, sprinklers throughout, and fire separation well beyond standard requirements. It's a higher standard of protection than most existing houses in London enjoy today.
Concerning trees, Plotnick confirmed that only two trees, T6 and T7, both in poor health with decay, would be removed. Officers confirmed these removals were necessary on safety grounds regardless of the application. Every other significant tree on the site is retained and will be protected by a condition requiring a method statement before works begin.
Council officers noted some policy non-compliances, but these were outweighed by the benefits of the scheme. This was particularly due to the council's housing land supply situation, which triggers a tilted balance
in favour of sustainable development.
Regarding accessibility, a specifically designed platform lift has been proposed at the three points where steps are located to ensure step-free access. This, along with all other elements of the scheme, has been reviewed and deemed acceptable by the council's housing occupational therapist officer, ensuring compliance with Part M4(2) of the building regulations. A condition also requires full details on how the access lane will be made safe, secure, and lit for future occupiers. The agent confirmed that all dwellings meet the required space standard and other technical housing standards, including the London Plan.
Concerns about flood risk will be addressed through a condition regarding surface water runoff. This will ensure that any surface water runoff is contained within the development and does not enter the main sewer. Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) are likely to be installed, incorporating permeable paving, landscaping, and potentially soak-aways and underground tanks for excess surface water. However, specific proposed systems and detailed mitigation plans were not provided.
The ecological survey found no evidence of protected species, including roosting bats, although bats were observed over the site with low activity. Measures to support bats post-development include bat-friendly lighting and landscaping. Conditions also propose habitat enhancements for birds and hedgehogs. The proposal results in a 65.1% net loss of biodiversity, falling short of the required 10% net gain. To achieve this, the applicant will be required to purchase government biodiversity credits to enhance a registered site elsewhere.
Councillors Pat Greenwell, Jummy Dawodu, and Patrick Ives voted against the proposal, citing concerns about amenity, disability access, and the adequacy of environmental surveys. Councillor George Edgar abstained. The application was ultimately approved with five votes in favour, three against, and one abstention.
Additional conditions were attached to the approval regarding sustainable urban drainage systems and stabilization details.
Agenda frontsheet 14th Jul 2026 Public reports pack 14th Jul 2026
