Historic England
Councils are currently addressing heritage impacts in major planning decisions, with Historic England advising on proposals and making listing decisions.
Lewisham Council's Strategic Planning Committee refused planning permission for the Deptford College site redevelopment in September 2026, following objections from Historic England regarding heritage impacts. In August 2026, Kensington and Chelsea Council's Planning Applications Committee approved a temporary facade wrap for Harrods' West Turret, with Historic England raising no objection due to its temporary nature and necessity for repairs.
Historic England declined statutory listing for the Seething Wells Filter Beds, the Former Chelsea Waterworks Drainage Pumping House, and the Former Chelsea Waterworks Boundary Railings in January 2026, stating they did not meet criteria for prioritising designation resources. This followed listing applications submitted by Kingston upon Thames Council in March 2025. Southwark Council also considered a draft Local Listed Building Consent Order in July 2025 to streamline solar panel installation on Grade II listed residential properties.
Councils continue to consider heritage impacts in various planning decisions. The topic is on the agenda for upcoming planning committee meetings in October 2026, including those at Lambeth, Hounslow, Tower Hamlets, Richmond upon Thames, and Enfield Councils.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council refused Deptford College site redevelopment in September 2026, following objections from Historic England. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council approved a temporary facade wrap for Harrods in August 2026, to which Historic England raised no objection. Source
- Historic England declined statutory listing for the Seething Wells Filter Beds and other structures in January 2026. Source
- Kingston upon Thames Council submitted listing applications to Historic England for Seething Wells Filter Beds in March 2025. Source
- Southwark Council considered a draft order in July 2025 to streamline solar panel installation on Grade II listed residential properties. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.