Croydon's Planning Committee has granted permission for the development of 25 flats and two commercial units at 1A Brighton Road, South Croydon. The decision, made on Thursday, September 3, 2026, allows for a five-storey block on the site, which was approved based on several planning policies and criteria.
The development contributes to Croydon's housing targets by providing 25 new homes on a brownfield site with excellent public transport accessibility. The scheme includes four First Homes and a £30,000 financial contribution towards affordable housing, deemed acceptable due to viability constraints and difficulties in securing a Registered Provider. The scale and design were considered acceptable, being similar to or smaller than previously approved schemes, and the design responds appropriately to the local context, including the locally listed Swan and Sugar Loaf building.
Objections were raised by local residents and Councillor Danielle Denton concerning the development's height, bulk, scale, and massing, which they argued would harm the character and setting of the locally listed Swan and Sugar Loaf building and the local heritage area, and lead to over-densification. Concerns were also voiced about flood risk, with the site located in Flood Zone 2 and 3(a). Councillor Denton also expressed a preference for residential use over a hotel, stating it would rob the South Caribbean ward of much-needed family homes
, and there were objections regarding the low percentage of affordable housing proposed and potential overlooking and loss of privacy for neighbouring properties.
The development is proposed to be car-free, with residents not entitled to parking permits, except for Blue Badge holders. This is supported by the site's high Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) of 6a and its proximity to South Croydon Railway Station. While cycle parking provision exceeds London Plan requirements, there is a shortfall of short-stay residential and commercial spaces. Servicing, delivery, and waste storage arrangements will be addressed through a Delivery and Servicing Plan and highway conditions.
The commercial units are designated as Class E and are anticipated to be used as a café or a community hub space. However, the applicant has not yet secured appropriate mitigations for the end-user occupier or fit-out of these units. A condition is recommended to restrict the use to non-food use
due to servicing requirements in the area.
Further details on the planning committee's decision can be found in the Public reports pack for the meeting held on September 3, 2026. Minutes of Previous Meeting are also available.
