Planning issues

On this page, we will highlight local planning issues which residents are concerned about and also national issues which affect planning in general. For Neighbourhood Plan and Design Codes, please see separate pages via the menu above.

Additional stories on existing buildings - Torrington Drive development / Lyndhurst Court

Torrington Drive - London Borough of Redbridge plans to build an additional storey on this council owned block as well as additional buildings on the existing plot where the garages are located.

Plans have also been put forward for an additional storey on a private block of flats at Lyndhurst Court, Churchfields. Residents of the block are very concerned - please see application reference 2908/21 (though work does not appear to have started - Nov/Dec 2023)

Changes to planning reforms

The Levelling Up & Regeneration Act received royal assent in October 2023. Associated changes to secondary legislation and accompanying planning policy are awaited.

HMOs/Co-living schemes

There has been an increase in the number of HMOs (house of multiple occupancy), especially in the “Church End” area of South Woodford, around Chelmsford Road. There are also larger developments, known as co-living schemes, one of which has received planning approval on the corner of Albert Road and Chigwell Road.

What to do if you have questions about a planning application

There are a number of steps you can take if you have concerns about an application in your street or neighbourhood.

  1. The initial step is to contact all your neighbours to ensure they are all aware of the application.

  2. Contact your local councillors - please see the Information page for these details.

  3. Double-check the final date for submission of comments, but note that comments can sometimes be accepted after the final date if the application is to be brought in front of the Planning Committee.