Bromley Council's Development Control Committee has approved plans for new employment buildings at Muirhead Vactric in Penge, a decision expected to bring significant economic benefits to the local area.
The decision, made at a meeting on Thursday, September 17, 2026, grants permission for the erection of employment buildings encompassing Use Classes E(g)(iii) for industrial processes, B2 for industrial activities, and B8 for storage or distribution. The development will also include car and cycle parking, landscaping, and associated infrastructure, such as a new substation and an acoustic fence.
The proposal was recommended for permission, subject to a legal agreement. The committee noted that the development strongly supports the principle of redeveloping the site within the designated Lower Sydenham Locally Significant Industrial Site (LSIS), aiming to provide high-quality employment floorspace and create jobs.
This development is projected to create 81 Full-Time Employees (FTE) in its operational phase, with an additional 40 permanent FTE construction jobs anticipated during the one-year construction period. The economic impact on the local Penge and Lower Sydenham area is expected to be substantial, including a net increase in full-time equivalent jobs compared to the historic situation, and net additional Gross Value Added per annum. Furthermore, the project is anticipated to generate net additional public sector revenues, create training opportunities for young people, and provide employment for previously unemployed residents. Potential NHS and fiscal savings are also expected from individuals returning to work, alongside community benefits through local procurement targets during construction.
The associated infrastructure includes a new substation, designed to facilitate an optimised building layout and increased floorspace. This substation will be located in the south-west corner of the yard and parking area serving Unit 1, positioned below surrounding external levels and screened by landscaping. UK Power Networks requires 24-hour vehicular access to their substations and has provided guidance on distances between buildings and substations, ensuring care is taken to keep footings of new buildings separated from substation structures.
To mitigate noise pollution, an acoustic fence is proposed. Service and loading areas for Unit 5 and Unit 8 will be additionally enclosed with a 3m high acoustic fence. While its effectiveness is expected through installation, specific details regarding its materials and performance are to be secured by condition.
The development is subject to a legal agreement, which includes key terms such as 100% affordable housing provision, carbon offsetting contributions for residential elements, and monitoring fees. The agreement also covers other obligations relevant to the owners of the residential sites. Further details can be found in the Public reports pack for the Development Control Committee meeting on Thursday, September 17, 2026 Public reports pack Thursday 17-Sep-2026 19.30 Development Control Committee.
