Bromley Council's Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 has approved a planning application to convert a vacant office building at 15 Wickham Road, Beckenham, into three residential flats. The decision, made on Thursday, August 13, 2026, followed a recommendation for approval from council officers. The proposal involves internal alterations only, with no changes to the building's exterior.
Officers noted that the scheme would contribute to the borough's housing supply, addressing the housing needs of the Borough. The conversion falls under Schedule 2, Part 3, Class MA of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. This order allows for the change of use of commercial buildings to residential under specific conditions, and in this instance, the proposal involved internal alterations only, with no external changes to the building.
The three proposed residential flats will comprise: Flat 1 (3 bedroom) with 99.2 sqm GIA, Flat 2 (2 bedroom) with 74.9 sqm GIA, and Flat 3 (1 bedroom) with 51.1 sqm GIA. The design quality was noted as high and would not be detrimental to the character and appearance of the area or the amenity of neighbouring occupiers.
To ensure the amenity of neighbouring occupiers is maintained, several measures will be put in place. These include conditions related to noise impact assessment and soundproofing to meet D'nT,w + Ctr of not less than 55 dB for walls and/or ceilings. Additionally, conditions will ensure any gas boilers meet a dry NOx emission rate of <40mg/kWh. Further conditions will address parking, refuse storage, and the implementation of a Construction Management Plan.
The application was referred to the committee because Councillor Adam Grant is listed as the applicant for the property at 15 Wickham Road. The committee's decision can be found in the Decisions Thursday 13-Aug-2026 19.00 Plans Sub-Committee No. 1.pdf. Further details are available in the Public reports pack Thursday 13-Aug-2026 19.00 Plans Sub-Committee No. 1.pdf.
