Read the text of this document (58 pages)
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Report of the Head of Development Management and Building Control
Committee Report
Case Officer: Emilie Bateman 1787/APP/2025/1849
Date Application
Valid:
07.07.25 Statutory / Agreed
Determination
Deadline:
08.06.26
Application
Type:
Full Ward: Northwood
Applicant: Mr Andrew MacDougall
Site Address: 44 Murray Road
Proposal: Demolition of existing dwellinghouse, and
erection of two storey building containing 5no.
self
-contained flats with associated landscaping,
parking, cycle and bin storage
Summary of
Recommendation:
GRANT planning permission subject to
conditions
Reason Reported
to Committee:
Required under Part 3 of the Planning Scheme of
Delegation (Petition received)
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Summary of Recommendation:
GRANT planning permission subject to the conditions set out in Appendix 1.
A) That the Council enter into a legal agreement with the applicant under
Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended)
or any other legislation to secure the following:
- Parking Permit Restriction: The applicant shall enter into a legal
agreement to ensure that future o ccupiers of the residential units
shall not be entitled to join any parking management scheme within
an existing or future Controlled Parking Zone in the vicinity of the site.
1 Executive Summary
1.1 The application seeks planning permission for the demolition of the existing
dwellinghouse and the erection of a two -storey building containing 5no. self-
contained flats, with associated landscaping, parking, cycle storage and refuse
storage at 44 Murray Road, Northwood.
1.2 The application is required to be determined at planning committee as a petition
of objection has been received. The petit ion contains 50 signatures and the
desired outcome of the petition is for th e application to be refused. The main
concerns raised through consultation are summarised in Section 6 of this report.
1.3 The committee report seeks to provide a comprehensive assessment of the full
planning application and supporting documentation. All material planning
considerations have been considered.
1.4 The site is located within an established residential area and the proposal would
provide a net increase of 4no. residential units. The inclusion of a three-bedroom
unit would retain family-sized accommodation on the site. The scheme would also
remain below the 10% threshold for flatted redevelopment under Policy DMH 4
and is therefore considered acceptable in principle.
1.5 The revised scheme is considered acceptable in respect of design, character and
appearance, neighbouring amenity, highways, parking, trees, landscaping,
drainage, ecology, biodiversity net gain and the quality of accommodation for
future occupiers, subject to the recommended conditions.
1.6 The revised design is considered acceptable in terms of scale, siting, form and
appearance. The building would sit between two -storey residential development
and the three -storey flatted development at Lingfield Close,and would be
appropriate in scale. The revised frontage treatment, retention of existing planting
and architectural approach would ensure the development sits acceptably within
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
the street scene.
1.7 It is recommended that planning permission is granted subject to conditions
(Appendix 1), as the development would preserve the character and appearance
of the Conservation Area, would not harm neighbouring amenity or highway
safety, and would deliver additional family housing.
2 The Site and Locality
2.1 The application site is located on the western side of Murray Road and comprises
a single-storey detached bungalow with a pitched roof, finished in brick and roof
tiles. An outbuilding is also located within the rear garden of the property. The site
is accessed from Murray Road via an existing vehicular access, which also serves
No. 42 Murray Road to the rear.
2.2 The surrounding area is predominantly residential in character and comprises a
varied mix of single -storey bungalows, two-storey dwellings and three- storey
flatted developments. Buildings within the locality are gen erally finished in brick,
render, pebble dash, or a combination of these materials. Properties are typically
set back from the highway, allowing space for front gardens, landscaping and/or
off
-street parking. Trees and soft landscaping are a common feature within the
street scene and contribute positively to the leafy suburban character of the area.
2.3 The application site has a Public Transpo rt Accessibility Level of 2, indicating a
relatively low level of public transport accessibility. There are no designated or
non
-designated heritage assets within the site, and the site is not subject to any
specific constraints.
Figure 1: Location Plan (application site edged red)
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Figure 2: 3D Birdseye View of the applic ation site (application site marked
with red X)
Figure 3: Street View Images of the Application Site
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
3 Proposal
3.1 The application seeks planning permission for the demolition of the existing single-
storey dwellinghouse and the erection of a two -storey building with habitable
accommodation in the roof containing 5no. self- contained residential flats,
together with associated landscaping , car parking, cycle parking and refuse
storage.
3.2 The proposal has been revised during the course of the application. The
amendments include changes to the siting, design and external appearance of the
building, the relocation of balcony provision, changes to the front landscaping
arrangement, and revised locations/details for cycle and refuse storage. Updated
daylight, sunlight and overshadowing information has also been submitted
following clarification of the internal layout of No. 42 Murray Road and the revised
siting of the proposed building.
3.3 The housing mix proposed under the scheme comprise 1 x three bedroom, 3 x
two bedroom and 1 x one bedroom flats which all served by private balcony areas
with a further area of communal garden space to the rear of the site.
Figure 4: Proposed Site Plan (please note – larger version of plan can be found
in the Committee Plan Pack)
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Figure 5: Proposed Floor Plans and Elevations Please note – larger version of
plans and elevations can be found in the Committee Plan Pack.
4 Relevant Planning History
4.1 A list of the relevant planning history related to the property can be found in
Appendix 2.
4.2 The relevant planning history for the site comprises application ref.
1787/APP/2023/202, which sought planning permission for the demolition of the
existing buildings and their replacement with an up to 2.5 -storey building
comprising 5no. self -contained fl ats, with associated parking, cycle and bin
storage and landscaping. This application was withdrawn on 16th May 2023.
4.3 The current application seeks to respond to concerns raised during the
consideration of the previous scheme, including the relationship of the
development with neighbouring properties, the overall design and appearance of
the building, the treatment of the
site frontage, and the arrangement of parking,
cycle storage, refuse storage and landsca ping. The current proposal has been
amended during the course of the application to further address these matters.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
5 Planning Policy
5.1 A list of planning policies relevant to the consideration of the application can be
found in Appendix 3.
6 Consultations and Representations
6.1 Letters were sent to neighbouring properties on 16th July 2025.
6.2 During the process of the application, revised drawings were received and
neighbours were re -consulted twice. The consultation period expired 3 rd of July
2026.
6.3 A petition has been received in objection to the application containing 50
signatures.
6.4 Representations received in response to public consultation are summarised in
Table 1 (below). Consultee responses received are summarised in Table 2
(below). Full copies of the responses have also separately been made available
to Members.
Table 1: Summary of Representations Received
Representations Summary of Issues
Raised
Planning Officer
Response
A petition of 50
signatures has
been received in
objection to the
application
requesting
refusal.
I. Concerns regarding
the principle of
replacing the
existing bungalow
with 5no. flats
The principle of
development, including the
loss of the existing
dwelling and provision of
additional housing, is
assessed at paragraphs
7.1
–7.5 of this report.
II. Overdevelopment
The scale, layout, density
and design of the proposal
are assessed at
paragraphs 7.6
–7.18. The
development is not
considered to represent
overdevelopment of the
site.
III. Impact on the
character of Murray
Road
The impact on the
character and appearance
of the area, including the
relationship with the
established street scene
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
and urban grain of Murray
Road, is assessed at
paragraphs 7.6
–7.18.
IV. Loss of
garden/green space
The impact on
landscaping, trees,
ecology and biodiversity is
assessed at paragraphs
7.56
–7.68.
V. Increased traffic and
parking pressure
Highway, parking and
traffic impacts are
assessed at paragraphs
7.39
–7.49. The Highway
Authority has raised no
objection to the proposal.
VI. Impact on
neighbouring
amenity
Residential amenity
impacts, including privacy,
outlook, daylight, sunlight
and overbearing impacts,
are assessed at
paragraphs 7.19
–7.30.
VII. Construction
disturbance
Construction impacts are
temporary in nature. A
Construction Management
Plan is recommended by
condition to control matters
such as working hours,
vehicle routing, dust
suppression and site
management during
construction.
VIII. Lack of solar
panels/heat pumps
Sustainability measures
and energy efficiency are
assessed at paragraphs
7.79
–7.81. The proposal
has been assessed
against the relevant
planning policy
requirements.
IX. Failure on
compliance with
Policy DMH 4.
Compliance with Policy
DMH 4, including the
concentration of flatted
development on Murray
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Road, is assessed at
paragraphs 7.1–7.5.
X. Inaccuracies in the
information
submitted
The application has been
assessed on the basis of
the submitted plans and
supporting information,
together with amended
plans and additional
technical information
submitted during the
course of the application.
Any material matters
relevant to the
determin
ation of the
application have been
considered within this
report.
XI. Noise/disturbance
from visitors
The site would remain in
residential use. Noise
impacts associated with
normal residential
occupation are considered
at paragraphs 7.50
–7.52
and are not considered to
result in unacceptable
harm.
XII. Subsistence
concerns from
excavation
Subsidence, foundation
design and structural
matters are primarily
matters addressed through
the Building Regulations
regime and are not
determinative planning
considerations
.
Multiple letters of
objection have
been received
from
7
households.
I. Principle of flatted
redevelopment and loss
of existing family
dwelling.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.1–7.5 of this
report.
II. Concerns regarding
future occupation,
subletting/temporary
accommodation.
Concerns regarding
potential future temporary
accommodation or HMO-
style occupation are noted.
A condition is
recommended restricting
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
the use of the approved
units to self-contained
residential dwellings within
Use Class C3.
III. Compliance with Policy
DMH 4 and existing
concentration of flats on
Murray Road.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.1
–7.5 of this
report.
IV. Impact on character and
appearance of Murray
Road.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.6–7.18 of
this report.
V. Height, scale, bulk and
alleged
overdevelopment.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.6–7.17 of
this report.
VI. Loss of garden land,
greenery and wildlife
habitat.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.56–7.68 of
this report.
VII. Amenity impacts
(Overlooking, privacy,
outlook,
daylight/sunlight and
overbearing)
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.19–7.30 of
this report.
VIII. Disturbance from
construction activity,
including noise, dust,
pollution which impact
on nearby residents
health and traffic
disruption.
Disturbance arising from
construction works, such
as noise, dust, and traffic,
is not a material planning
consideration in itself as it
is temporary in nature.
However, to minimise
impacts, a Construction
Management Plan would
be secured by condition
(see Condition 4) requiring
details of working hours,
vehicle routing, site set-up
and mitigation measures.
The development would
also be required to ensure
that suitable netting and
hoarding is in place to
minimise any excess dust
from the ongoing works.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
An informative would also
be added to remind the
applicant of their
obligations under
environmental health
legislation regarding
construction noise and site
practices.
IX. Accuracy of the
daylight/sunlight
assessment and
amenity impact on Nos.
40, 40B, 42 Murray
Road and Lingfield
Close.
Updated daylight, sunlight
and overshadowing
information has been
submitted during the
course of the application,
including assessment of
Nos. 40, 40B, 42 Murray
Road and Lingfield Close.
This included further
assessment of the ground
floor habitable room at No.
42 Murray Road. The
submitted assessment
concludes that the relevant
BRE guidance would be
met. This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.19
–7.30 of
this report.
X. Impact on the shared
access serving No. 42
Murray Road.
The existing shared
access serving No. 42
Murray Road would be
retained and would
continue to provide access
to that property. The
Highway Authority has
reviewed the proposed
access and parking
arrangements and has
raised no objection.
Vehicles would be able to
enter and leave the site in
a forward gear, and the
additional vehicle
movements associated
with the development are
not considered to result in
unacceptable harm to
highway safety or the
operation of the shared
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
access. The proposal also
includes resurfacing of the
shared driveway with
permeable block paving,
which would improve the
existing surface treatment.
Any private rights of
access, ownership or
maintenance obligations
are civil matters between
the relevant parties and
are not determinative of
the planning application.
XI. Parking pressure, traffic
generation, congestion
and highway safety.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.39–7.49 of
this report. The Highway
Authority has reviewed the
proposal and has raised no
objection, subject to
conditions.
XII. Adequacy and location
of cycle storage and bin
storage.
Cycle storage is discussed
at paragraph 7.44 of this
report. Refuse and
recycling storage is
discussed at paragraphs
7.76
–7.78 of this report.
XIII. Quality of
accommodation,
including Flat 5 ceiling
heights.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.31–7.38 of
this report.
IV. Adequacy and usability
of private and
communal amenity
space.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.35–7.38 of
this report.
XV. Impact on trees, hedges
and landscaping which
contribute to ecology,
wildlife and BNG
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.56–7.68 of
this report.
VI. Drainage, flood risk and
utility capacity.
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.69–7.75 of
this report.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
VII. Sustainability, including
lack of solar panels or
heat pumps which help
with decarbonisation
This is discussed at
paragraphs 7.79–7.81 of
this report.
VIII. Subsidence,
foundations and
structural damage.
These are primarily
Building Regulations and
civil matters.
IX. Site notice, neighbour
notification and re-
consultation concerns.
The application has been
publicised in accordance
with statutory requirements
and the Council’s adopted
Statement of Community
Involvement. Neighbours
were re
-consulted
following receipt of revised
plans and additional
supporting information.
XX. Human rights, rights to
light, private nuisance
and legal access rights.
Human Rights are
considered at paragraph
8.1. Rights to light,
easements, private
nuisance and legal access
rights are primarily civil
matters.
XI. Impact on property
values.
This is not a material
planning consideration.
XII. Concern that a similar
previous application
was refused/withdrawn.
The relevant planning
history is set out in Section
4. The previous application
was withdrawn and was
not refused. This
application has been
assessed on its own merits
against current policy and
the revised plans
.
Northwood
Residents
Association
30-07-25: Objection raised
on the basis that only 5 car
parking spaces are shown,
one of which is disabled,
with no on
-site visitor
parking. Concerns raised
that Murray Road is
already congested and that
The matters raised are
addressed in the main
body of the report. The
principle of flatted
redevelopment and
compliance with Policy
DMH 4 are assessed at
paragraphs 7.1–7.5.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
the proposal would worsen
parking and traffic
conditions. Objection also
raised regarding loss of
front garden, limited rear
amenity space for 5no.
flats,
overdevelopment/cramped
layout, loss of privacy from
side windows, poor
accommodation if
habitable rooms require
obscure glazing, and
conflict with Policy DMH 4
due to flatted development
resulting in parking
pressure, loss of front
gardens, privacy impacts,
changes to the street
scene and loss of family
accommodation.
Further objection 16-07-
25: Request that all side
windows are obscure
glazed and non
-opening
below 1.8m to prevent
overlooking.
Further objection 6-04-
26: Previous objection
maintained. Concern
raised that a window at No.
42 Murray Road is omitted
from the submitted plans.
Further objection
23-06-
26:
The previous objections
still apply with the loss of
the front garden which
becomes a car park being
an adverse change to the
streetscene, the loss of
amenity space for the
residents, no car parking
on
-site for visitors,
habitable rooms having
obscured glazing to avoid
Design, frontage
treatment, loss of front
garden space and impact
on the street scene are
assessed at paragraphs
7.6
–7.18.
Neighbouring amenity,
including overlooking,
obscure
-glazed side
windows, privacy, outlook,
daylight/sunlight and the
relationship with No. 42
Murray Road, is assessed
at paragraphs 7.19
–7.30. It
has been clarified during
the course of the
application that
the ground
floor window at No. 42
serves a habitable room.
Updated daylight, sunlight
and overshadowing
information has been
submitted on this basis
and is considered within
the report.
Parking, visitor parking,
access and traffic impacts
are assessed at
paragraphs 7.39
–7.49.
The Highway Authority has
reviewed the proposal and
has raised no objection,
subject to conditions.
External amenity space for
future occupiers is
assessed at paragraphs
7.35
–7.38.
Conditions are
recommended to secure
obscure glazing/non
-
opening side windows,
privacy screens,
landscaping, parking
allocation, cycle storage
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
overlooking of the
neighbours, and general
overdevelopment.
and refuse/recycling
storage.
David Simmonds
Member of
Parliament for
Ruislip,
Northwood and
Pinner
I refer to the above
application which falls
within my constituency.
Constituents have
contacted me with their
concerns regarding this
application and I
understand that a petition
has been lodged with the
Council.
I would ask that you please
take their concerns into
consideration when
determining
this application.
Noted.
Table 2: Summary of Consultee Responses
Consultee and Summary of Comments
Planning Officer
Response
Design and Landscape Officer
Initial concerns were raised regarding the reduction
in soft landscaping to the frontage, with the frontage
dominated by hardstanding, bin storage and parking.
Concern was also raised that the architecture
appeared overly complex for the character of the
street, including the porch depth, recessed “negative
spaces” and projecting bays. It was recommended
that the porch be simplified, the projecting bays
removed, and a more traditional elevational
arrangement secured.
Further details were also requested in respect of the
lift overrun, recessed balconies, rear dormer, CGI
views, ground floor privacy/defensible space, the
positioning of cycle/bin storage and the rear
separation distance. Following revised drawings, the
re
tention of frontage trees, simplified porch, and
removal of projecting bays at first-floor level were
welcomed.
The Design Officer requested an Arboricultural
Method Statement to demonstrate that parking
spaces can be installed without harm to retained
The comments are
noted. Following the
Design and
Landscape Officer’s
comments, amended
plans and additional
information were
submitted. These
included a simplified
porch design,
removal of the
projecting first
-floor
bays, relocation of
cycle storage to the
rear, retention of
frontage trees and
hedging, revised
frontage landscaping,
updated CGI views,
clarification of the lift
overrun and rear
dormer, and clearer
details of private
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
trees, updated CGI visuals to include the lift overrun,
and clear indication of the private garden areas
serving the ground floor flats.
amenity/defensible
space for the ground
floor flats.
The amendments are
considered to have
largely addressed the
concerns raised.
Final details of
materials,
landscaping,
boundary treatments,
tree protection and
relevant external
features are secured
by condition.
Access Officer
No concerns were raised in respect of London Plan
Policy D7. The Access Officer recommended
conditions requiring details of step
-free access via all
points of entry and exit prior to works above damp
proof course level, and certification prior to
occupatio
n demonstrating compliance with the
technical specifications for an M4(2) dwelling, as set
out in Approved Document M to the Building
Regulations.
The comments have
been noted, and the
relevant conditions
have been added.
Highways Authority
No objection, subject to conditions. The Highway
Officer noted that the site is located within a CPZ
operating between 1pm and 2pm Monday to Friday,
and that the site has a moderate PTAL rating.
A legal
agreement is recommended to restrict future
residents from joining a Parking Management
Scheme. The proposal would provide 5no. on-site
parking spaces, including 1no. disabled-compliant
space. Although this marginally exceeds the London
Plan maximum parking standard, the provision is
considered acceptable g
iven the site’s public
transport accessibility and the benefit of limiting on-
street parking displacement. All 5no. spaces would
have active EV charging. Cycle parking provision
would exceed minimum requirements. Traffic
generation would be modest and capable of being
accommodated on the local highway network. The
existing shared access with No. 42 would remain
and is considered fit for purpose, with vehicles able
The comments have
been noted, and the
relevant
legal
agreement and
conditions have been
added.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
to enter and leave in a forward gear. The proposed
resurfacing of the driveway with permeable block
paving was noted as an improvement. Refuse
collection from Murray Road is acceptable, subject to
the bin store being located within the Council’s
collection
distance. A Construction Management
Plan condition is recommended.
Waste Officer
The proposed bin store does not include provision
for a 140L communal food waste bin. Concerns were
also raised that a collection strategy has not been
demonstrated.
Given the scale of the
development, it is
considered that these
matters can be
satisfactorily
addressed through a
planning condition
requiring full details of
refuse and recycling
storage, including
provision for food
waste, access
arrangements, a
collection/presentatio
n point and a refuse
collection
methodology. Subject
to this condition, the
proposal is
considered
acceptable in waste
management terms.
7 Planning Assessment
Principle of Development
7.1 The application seeks the demolition of the existing single dwellinghouse and its
replacement with 5no. self -contained flats, resulting in a net increase of 4no.
homes on the site. The proposed accommodation would comprise 1no. three-
bedroom flat, 1no. one
-bedroom flat and 3no. two- bedroom flats. Whilst the
existing dwellinghouse would be lost, the provision of a three -bedroom, five-
person unit would retain family-sized accommodation within the development and
would therefore materially mitigate concerns regarding the loss of family housing.
7.2 This is a relevant consideration in the assessment of Policy DMH 4 of the
Hillingdon Local Plan: Part Two (2020), which seeks to manage the
redevelopment of dwellings into flats where this would result in an over-
concentration of flatted accommodation, with associated impacts including
pressure on parking, reductions in privacy, loss of front gardens, changes to the
character of residential streets and the loss of family accommodation. Policy DMH
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
4 permits such development where the relevant criteria are satisfied, including
where no more than 10% of properties on the residential street would be
redeveloped into flats.
7.3 Murray Road is less than 1km in length and has therefore been assessed as a
whole. Officers have reviewed the flat ted development position along Murray
Road and are satisfied that the proposal would not result in more than 10% of
properties on the street being redeveloped into flats, in accordance with Policy
DMH 4. The existing bungalow is of limited architectural merit and has an unusual
siting that does not address the street in the prevailing manner. Its replacement
with a frontage building would better
reflect the established urban grain and
optimise the capacity of the site for additional residential units at an appropriate
density, consistent with the design-led approach in London Plan Policy D3.
7.4 The site is located within an established residential area and comprises previously
developed residential land. The redevel opment of the site would therefore
represent an efficient use of land for housing with an appropriate mix , consistent
with national, regional and local planning policy, which seeks to optimise site
capacit
y. In the context of the Council’s current five- year housing land supply
position, the delivery of additional housing attracts positive weight. This does not
automatically override all other planning considerations, but it is a material
consideration which weighs in favour of the proposal.
7.5 Overall, the proposal would remain with in the Policy DMH 4 threshold, would
provide a net increase of 4no. residential units, and would retain family -sized
accommodation on the site through the provision of a three-bedroom ground floor
flat. The principle of residential redevelopment is therefore considered acceptable,
subject to the detailed assessment of design, character and appearance,
residential amenity, highways and parki ng, landscaping, biodiversity, drainage
and all other material planning considerations. The weight to be afforded to
housing delivery, including in the context of the Council’s five
-year housing land
supply position, is considered further in the planning balance.
Design / Impact on the Character and Appearance of the Area
7.6 Policy BE1 of the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part One (2012) seeks high quality design
which responds positively to local charac ter. Policies DMHB 11, DMHB 12 and
DMHB 14 of the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part Two (2020) require development to
be appropriate in terms of siting, scale, bulk, layout, appearance, landscaping and
impact on the street scene. London Plan Policy D3 also requires development to
follow a design
-led approach which optimises site capacity while responding to
local context.
Site Context
7.7 The application site currently comprises a modest single-storey bungalow set
within a relatively generous plot on the western side of Murray Road. The existing
dwelling is set back from the highway, with vegetation and trees contributing to the
landscaped character of the frontage. However, the building itself is unusual within
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
this part of the street, as its flank elevation addresses Murray Road rather than a
principal frontage. The surrounding area is predominantly residential but varied in
form and tenure. The prevailing pattern is generally one of buildings fronting the
highway with a broadly consistent buildin g line, although there are examples of
backland and infill development to the rear, including Nos. 38, 40A and 42 Murray
Road. The wider street also includes single
-storey bungalows, two- storey
dwellings, properties with roof accommodation and three storey purpose- built
flats, notably next door at Lingfield Close. Roof forms include hipped roofs and
gable features, with materials generally comprising brick, render or a combination
of both.
7.8 The proposal would replace the existing bungalow with a two-storey building
containing 5no. self-contained flats. While the proposed building would be larger
than the existing dwelling and would repres ent an intensification of built form on
the site, it would remain residential in scale and appearance. It would also
introduce a more conventional frontage relationship with Murray Road, in keeping
with the established urban grain, while sitt ing within the varied suburban context
described above.
Proposed dwellings
7.9 The originally submitted scheme raised concerns regarding the complexity of the
front elevation and the treatment of the frontage, including the use of front -facing
balconies, projecting bay features, a deeper porch arrangement, and the extent of
hardstanding and ancillary structures within the front garden. Revised plans were
subsequently submitted, with the final amended plans received on 30 th of March
2026. These revisions removed the front -facing balconies, relocated balcony
provision to the rear elevation, omi tted the projecting bay features at first -floor
level, simplified the porch, amended the fe nestration to provide a clearer vertical
hierarchy, relocated the cycle store to the rear and improved the frontage
landscaping arrangement. Additional CGI views, sections and elevational
information were also submitted to demonstrate the appearance of the revised
scheme, including the rear elevation,
dormer, balcony arrangement and roof
profile.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Figure 6: CGI of Front Elevation
7.10 As revised, the front elevation would comprise a balanced residential façade with
two front -facing gables and ground floor bay windows. These features reflect
elements already present within the surrounding street scene, where gables, bay
windows, pitched roof forms and traditional domestic proportions form part of the
local architectural character. The bay windows would provide articulation and
rhythm to the frontage, while the simplified porch and more ordered window
arrangement would create a clearer and
more traditional architectural
composition.
Figure 7: Proposed Streetscene
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
7.11 The eaves height would maintain a broadly consistent relationship with
neighbouring development. While the main ridge would sit slightly above the
immediately adjoining dwelling, the overall height would remain comparable with
other two
-storey and roof-form development within the wider street. The retained
gaps to either side of the building would also ensure that it sits comfortably within
the plot, maintaining a sense of openness and avoiding a cramped appearance.
Overall, the revised design would read as
a coherent residential building rather
than an overly complex flatted block.
Figure 8: Streetscene Section
7.12 The submitted section drawing demonstrates the relationship between the
proposed building, the retained frontage hedge and Murray Road. From the
footway immediately adjacent to the site, views would be largely screened by the
retained hedge, with the line of sight extending above the building towards the sky
due to the set
-back position of the proposed building and the change in levels.
From the opposite side of Murray Road, views would include the top of the hedge
and the lower part of the front elevation, with the retained landscaping continuing
to soften the appearance of the development in the street scene.
Figure 9: Proposed Site Plan
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
7.13 The siting of the building has also been amended, with the footprint moved slightly
forward so that the building sits more comfortably in relation to the neighbouring
building line, while reducing the rearward projection. This assists the development
in integrating with the established pattern of development along Murray Road and
improves its relationship with the rear part of the site.
7.14 The revised frontage arrangement is also considered acceptable. The relocation
of the cycle store to the rear reduces built form and visual clutter within the front
garden, while the retention of the exist ing hedge and frontage trees would help
preserve the verdant character of the stre et. It is also noted that a number of
properties along Murray Road, including between Nos. 14 and 44 and on the
opposite side of the road, contain sign ificant areas of frontage hardstanding for
parking. In this context, the proposed level of hardstanding would not appear
uncharacteristic. The retained hedge, frontage trees and proposed planting would
ensure that a soft landscaped element is maintained, preserving the leafy
suburban character of the street scene. Full details of hard and soft landscaping,
tree protection, boundary treatments and long
-term maintenance can be secured
by condition.
Figure 10: CGI of Rear Elevation
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
7.15 To the rear, the building would include hi pped roof forms, a modest rear dormer
and recessed balcony. These elements would be positioned away from the
principal street frontage and would not appear prominent within the public realm.
The
dormer is a modest scale and the recessed balcony provides a well-designed
private space without compromising the roof form or creating any privacy issues
to adjoining
residents given it would be recessed. The lift overrun would be
accommodated within the profile of the roof, rather than appearing as a separate
rooftop structure, which is welcomed as it limits visual clutter and avoids
unnecessary additional roof-level bulk.
7.16 The height, scale and massing of the proposed building are considered acceptable
in the context of the surrounding area. While the building would be larger than the
existing bungalow, it would remain two storeys in appearance and would sit
comfortably betw
een the two-storey residential development to the north and the
three-storey flatted development to the south. The pitched roof form, gabled
frontage and domestic elevational treatment would help the building respond to
the residential character of Murray Road, while the simplified design would avoid
appearing unduly prominent or incongruous within the street scene. The upper-
floor balconies would be located to the rear and would be modest in scale, with
privacy screening to the sides. They would not appear
as visually dominant
additions or result in excessive clutter to the rear elevation.
Final external materials would be secured by condition to ensure a high-quality
finish. Subject to such details, the proposed architectural approach is considered
acceptable and would provide an appropriate residential appearance within the
varied street scene.
7.17 Overall, having regard to the varied character of Murray Road, the two-storey
scale of the building, its transitional relationship between neighbouring two and
three
-storey development, the simplified architectural approach, the use of gables
and bay windows to the frontage, the contained roof form, improved frontage
arrangement and retention of important existing landscaping, the proposal is
considered to sit acceptably within the street scene. The development would not
result in unacceptable harm to the character and appearance of the area and
would accord with Policies BE1, DMHB 11, DMHB 12 and DMHB 14, London Plan
Policy D3 and the design objectives of the NPPF.
Heritage
7.18 The application site is not located within a Conservation Area and the existing
building is not listed or locally listed . The Northwood Town Centre, Green Lane
Conservation Area lies to the north of the site, a short distance away. Having
regard to the intervening residential development, the established built-up
character of Murray Road, and the revised design and quality of the proposed
materials, the development would not advers ely affect the setting or significance
of the Conservation Area. There are no
designated or non- designated heritage
assets within the site itself. The proposal is therefore considered acceptable in
heritage terms and would accord with Policies DMHB 1, DMHB 2 and DMHB 3 of
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part Two (2020), Policy HC1 of the London Plan (2021)
and the heritage provisions of the NPPF (2024).
Residential Amenity
7.19 Policy DHMB 11 of the Hillingdon Local Plan Part 2 (2020) states that
development proposals should not adversely impact on the amenity, daylight and
sunlight of adjacent properties and open space. An assessment of the potential
impact on neighbouring residential amenity is discussed below.
Figure 11: Location in relation to neighbouring dwellings
7.20 The application site has a relatively complex relationship with surrounding
properties. No. 40 Murray Road lies immediately to the north. An access road runs
along the southern side of the application site and provides access to No. 42
Murray Road, which is located to the rear of the site. No. 40 also has a side access
road on its opposite side, which provides access to No. 40B, another backland/infill
dwelling located to the rear and adjacent to No. 42. To the south of the application
site, beyond the inte
rnal access road, is L ingfield Close, a three- storey flatted
development. The impacts on neighbouring properties are therefore considered in
turn below.
7.21 The application is supported by an updated Daylight, Sunlight and Overshadowing
Assessment, which considers the impact of the revised proposal on Nos. 40, 40B
and 42 Murray Road and 2 Lingfield Close. The assessment also includes further
consideration of the ground floor habitable room at No. 42 Murray Road following
clarification of its internal layout. The updated assessment concludes that the
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
proposal would meet the relevant BRE guidance in respect of daylight, sunlight
and overshadowing.
No. 40 Murray Road
Figure 12: Showing No.40 and Roof of Application Site to the Left
7.22 No. 40 Murray Road lies immediately to the north of the application site. The
proposed building would be larger than the existing bungalow and would therefore
have a greater presence when viewed from this neighbouring property. However,
the revised scheme has moved the footprint slightly forward, improving the
relationship with this neighbouring dwelling. The proposed development would sit
outside the 45
-degree sightline from No. 40 and would not result in an
unacceptable loss of outlook, daylight or su nlight to this property. The updated
daylight and sunlight assessment consider ed 11 windows at No. 40, all of which
would meet the relevant BRE daylight guidance. The assessed windows would
also meet the relevant sunlight target s. The rear balconies would include 1.8m
privacy screens to the side, which would li mit overlooking towards No. 40 and its
rear garden. The proposed side window s would be obscurely glazed and non-
opening below 1.8m. Subject to these details being secured by condition and
retained thereafter, the proposal is not considered to result in unacceptable
overlooking, loss of privacy, enclosure or overdominance to occupiers of No. 40.
No. 40B Murray Road
7.23 No. 40B is located diagonally to the rear of the application site and adjacent to No.
42. It would be approximately 21m from the rear windows/balconies of the
proposed development, with views occurr ing at an oblique angle rather than
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
directly facing. Given this separation distance and the angled relationship, the
proposal is not considered to result in unacceptable overlooking, loss of privacy,
outlook or overdominance to occupie rs of No. 40B. The updated daylight and
sunlight assessment considered six windows at No. 40B, all of which would meet
the relevant BRE daylight guidance and sunl ight targets. The garden area would
also continue to receive acceptable level s of sunlight. This further supports the
conclusion that the proposal would not result in unacceptable harm to this
property.
No. 42 Murray Road
Figure 13: Showing Application Site and No.42
7.24 No. 42 Murray Road is located to the rear of the application site and is accessed
via the internal access road running along the southern side of the site. The
relationship with this property has been carefully considered following concerns
raised by the occupiers regarding the accuracy of the original daylight and sunlight
assessment. The original assessment identified a minor adverse impact to a
ground floor window within the flank elevation of No. 42. During the course of the
application it was clarified
that this window serves a habitable family room rather
than a garage. In response, the applicant submitted an updated Daylight, Sunlight
and Overshadowing Assessment and amended the siting of the proposed
building, moving it slightly forward with in the plot and increasing the separation
distance to No. 42.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
7.25 The updated assessment confirms that all four assessed windows at No. 42 would
meet the relevant BRE daylight guidance and that the family room would also
satisfy the daylight distribution test. All assessed windows would meet the relevant
sunlight targets
and the garden amenity area would continue to receive acceptable
levels of sunlight. The assessment theref ore concludes that the proposal would
not result in unacceptable daylight or sunlight impacts to No. 42.
Figure 14: View from Window of Bedroom 1 Ground Floor Unit 1
7.26 Officers have also undertaken an assessment of outlook, privacy and overbearing
impact. Whilst the ground floor family room window faces towards the application
site, it already has a relatively enclos ed outlook due to the existing boundary
treatment and vegetation between the properties. Views between the ground floor
window at No. 42 and the application site would be limited by the intervening
boundary treatment, landscaping and the angled relationship between the
properties. Furthermore, the application site could erect a boundary fence of up to
2m in height without requiring planning permission. Having regard to the
separation distance, intervening landscaping, orientation of the properties and the
updated technical assessment, the proposal is not considered to result in
unacceptable harm to the occupiers of No. 42 in terms of outlook, privacy,
enclosure, daylight, sunlight or overbearing impact.
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Lingfield Close
Figure 15: Showing Application Site Entrance and Lingfield Close
7.27 Lingfield Close lies to the south of the application site and comprises a three-
storey flatted development. It is separated from the site by the internal access road
serving No. 42 Murray Road. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential
impact on windows serving flats within Lingfield Close, including bedroom
windows facing towards the application site. The updated daylight and sunlight
assessment considered the relevant windows at Lingfield Close, including those
serving No. 12 Lingfield Close, and confirms that they would meet the relevant
BRE daylight guidance. No sunlight assessment was required for these windows
as they face within 90 degrees of due north.
Given the separation provided by the
access road, the orientation of the buildings, the scale of the existing flatted
development and the findings of the updated technical assessment, the proposal
would not result in unacceptable loss of light, outlook, privacy or overbearing
impact to occupiers of Lingfield Close. The proposed side windows facing south
would also be obscurely glazed and non
-opening below 1.8m, secured by
condition, to prevent overlooking.
7.28 The properties on the opposite side of Murray Road are located over 34m from
the front elevation of the proposed development. This distance is sufficient to
ensure that the proposal would not result in unacceptable overlooking, loss of
privacy, loss of outlook or overdominance to these occupiers. The removal of the
front
-facing balconies from the revised scheme also reduces the potential for
overlooking towards properties opposite . The existing hedge and frontage trees
are also to be retained, which would assist in filtering views of the development
from the street.
7.29 The proposed ground floor terraces, upper floor balconies, recessed roof-level
balcony and communal amenity space have also been considered in terms of
neighbouring amenity. The rear balconies would be modest in scale and would
include privacy screening where necessary to prevent harmful overlooking. The
ground floor terraces would be enclosed and supported by defensible planting,
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
with final boundary treatment and land scaping details secured by condition.
Subject to these measures, the proposed external amenity areas would not result
in unacceptable overlooking, privacy impacts or disturbance to neighbouring
occupiers.
7.30 The proposal would result in a more intensive form of development than the
existing bungalow and would have a greater physical presence on the site.
However, the revised plans have improved the relationship with neighbouring
properties, and the updated Daylight, Sunlight and Overshadowing Assessment
indicates that the development would not result in unacceptable harm to
neighbouring properties in daylight, sunlight or overshadowing terms. Having
regard to the surrounding pattern of development, the orientation of neighbouring
properties, the separation distances, existing boundary conditions and proposed
mitigation, the development is not considered to result in unacceptable harm to
neighbouring residential amenity.
Quality of Residential Accommodation (Internal and External)
Internal
7.31 Policy D6 of the London Plan (2021) requ ires new residential development to
provide high quality accommodation and meet the minimum internal space
standards set out in Table 3.1. The policy also requires at least 75% of the Gross
Internal Area of each dwel
ling to achieve a minimum floor-to-ceiling height of 2.5m.
Policy DMHB 18 of the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part Two (2020) requires new
dwellings to provide a satisfactory stan dard of accommodation for future
occupiers, including in terms of layout, outlook, daylight, privacy and usable
amenity space.
7.32 The submitted plans demonstrate that all five units would exceed the relevant
minimum internal space standards set out in London Plan Policy D6. Flat 1 would
be a three -bedroom five- person unit and would provide 98sqm of internal
floorspace, exceeding the minimum requirement of 86sqm. Flat 2 would be a one-
bedroom two -person unit and would provide 58sqm, exceeding the minimum
requirement of 50sqm. Flats 3 and 4 would each be two -bedroom three-person
units and would each provide 77sqm, exceeding the minimum requirement of
61sqm. Flat 5 would also be a two
-bedroom three-person unit and would provide
82sqm, exceeding the minimum requirement of 61sqm.
7.33 With regard to floor-to-ceiling heights, the submitted information confirms that Flat
5, which would be partly accommodated within the roof form, would provide 62sqm
of floorspace at full height. This equat es to approximately 75% of the total unit
area achieving a 2.5m ceiling height, in accordance with London Plan Policy D6.
Whilst a detailed internal daylight asse ssment has not been submitted for the
proposed flats, Flat 5 would benefit from a combination of dormer windows, large
front windows
and rooflig hts serving the principal habitable rooms. These
openings would provide a good level of natural light, outlook and ventilation,
notwithstanding the accommodation being located within the roof space. Taking
this into account, together with the generous internal floorspace provided, the unit
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
is considered to provide an acceptable standard of accommodation for future
occupiers.
7.34 Therefore, all units would be served by external windows to principal habitable
rooms, providing acceptable outlook, daylight and natural ventilation. The ground
floor lounge/kitchen areas would be served by front
-facing bay windows, with
frontage hedging proposed to provide privacy from the parking area. The rear-
facing ground floor bedroom windows would face towards the private patio areas
and communal garden beyond, with railings and planting proposed to provide a
defensible space and protect privacy. The upper floor units would also benefit from
front and rear
-facing windows. Overall, the proposed units would meet and exceed
the relevant internal space standards and would provide an acceptable standard
of internal accommodation.
External
7.35 Policy DMHB 18 of the Hill ingdon Local Plan: Part Two (2020) requires flatted
developments to provide appropriate and usable external amenity space for future
occupiers. For flats, the Council’ s standards require 20sqm for a one
-bedroom
unit, 25sqm for a two-bedroom unit and 30sqm for a three- bedroom unit. On this
basis, the proposed development would generate a total external amenity space
requirement of approximately 125sqm.
7.36 The proposed development would provide a combination of private and communal
amenity space. Flat 1 would benefit from an approximately 10sqm private terrace,
and Flat 2 would also benefit from an approximately 10sqm private terrace. These
terraces would be
enclosed by 1.2m high railings with associated planting to
provide defensible space and privacy for the ground floor units. Flats 3 and 4
would each benefit from an approximately 6sqm private balcony, and Flat 5 would
benefit from an approximately 7sqm recessed balcony.
Figure 16: Landscape Strategy
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
7.37 In addition to the private terraces and balconies, all units would have access to a
rear communal garden measuring appr oximately 90sqm. The total external
amenity provision would therefore amount to approximately 129sqm, exceeding
the minimum policy requirement. The communal garden would be located to the
rear of the building and would be of a usable size and shape for future occupiers.
7.38 Subject to a condition securing full landscaping, boundary treatment and planting
details, the external amenity arrangement is considered acceptable. The proposal
would therefore provide an acceptable lev el of external amenity for future
occupiers, in accordance with Policy DM HB 18 of the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part
Two (2020).
Highways and Parking
7.39 Policies DMT 1 and DMT 2 of the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part Two (2020) require
development to be acceptable in terms of traffic generation, highway safety,
access arrangements and the capacity of the local highway network. Policy DMT
6 relates to vehicle parking provision. London Plan Policies T4, T5 and T6 seek
to ensure that development supports safe and sustainable movement, provides
appropriate cycle parking and complies with residential parking standards.
7.40 The application site is located on Murray Road, within a residential area subject to
a Controlled Parking Zone operating between 1pm and 2pm, Monday to Friday.
The site has relatively low/moderate public transport accessibility, and future
occupiers are therefore likely to have some reliance on private vehicles. The
existing vehicular access from Murray Road would be retained and would continue
to serve both the application site and No. 42 Murray Road to the rear.
7.41 The proposed development would provide 5no. on-site car parking spaces,
including 1no. disabled-compliant space. This would equate to one space per flat.
The Highway Authority has advised that, while the provision marginally exceeds
the London Plan residential parking standard, it is acceptable in this location given
the site’s public transport accessibility a nd the benefit of reducing potential on-
street parking pressure. A condition is recommended requiring the parking spaces
to be allocated and retained for the lifetime of the development.
7.42 The surrounding area is subject to a Controlled Parking Zone operating between
1pm and 2pm, Monday to Friday. This provides a degree of control over on-street
parking demand during controlled hours. The Highway Authority has reviewed the
proposed parking arrangement and
has requested that the applicant enter into a
legal agreement to ensure that future oc cupiers of the residential units shall not
be entitled to join any parking management scheme within an existing or future
Controlled Parking Zone in the vicinity of the site. A Head of Terms securing this
legal agreement has been set out at the start of the report. This would secured
post committee and has been agreed by the Applicant.
7.43 The applicant has confirmed that all 5no. parking spaces would be provided with
active electric vehicle charging points. This would exceed the minimum London
Hillingdon Planning Committee – 14th July 2026
PART 1 – Members, Public & Press
Plan requirement for 20% active provision with the remaining spaces passive, and
is therefore welcomed and secured by condition.
7.44 In terms of cycle parking, the development would be required to provide secure
and accessible cycle parking for future occupiers. The revised plans show the
cycle store relocated to the rear of th e site, which is welcomed in design and
landscaping terms as
it reduces clutter to the fron tage and allows for improved
soft landscaping. Subject to a condition securing compliance, the proposed cycle
parking arrangement is considered acceptable.
7.45 The proposal would result in an increase in traffic generation compared with the
existing single dwelling. However, the Hi ghway Authority has advised that peak
period movements are unlikely to exceed two vehicle movements during the
busiest morning and evening periods. This level of traffic generation would be
modest and capable of being accommodated within the local highway network
without resulting in unacceptable congestion or highway safety impacts.
7.46 The existing vehicular access would remain unchanged and is considered suitable
to serve the development. Vehicles would be able to enter and leave the site in a
forward gear, which is welcomed in highway sa fety terms. It is noted that the
access road also
serves No. 42 Murray Road and concerns have been raised
regarding its maintenance.
7.47 The proposal includes resurfacing of th e shared driveway with permeable block
paving, which would represent an improvement to the existing arrangement. The
continued private access rights and maintenance arrangements are separate civil
matters, but the physical access arrangement is considered acceptable in highway
terms.
7.48 Given the residential nature of Murray Road and the constrained site
arrangement, a Construction Management Plan is recommended by condition.
This should include details of construction traffic routing, contractor parking,
loading/unloading, delivery times, wheel washing, dust control and measures to
protect the shared access and surrounding highway during construction.
7.49 Overall, subject to conditions securing parking allocation, Legal Agreement
restricting parking permits, EV charging, cycle storage, refuse storage and a
Construction Management Plan, the proposal is considered acceptable in
highway, parking and transportation terms. The development would not result in
unacceptable harm to highway safety, traffic flow or parking conditions, and
would accord with Policies DMT 1, DMT 2 and DMT 6 of the Hillingdon Local
Plan: Part Two (2020), and Policies T4, T5 and T6 of the London Plan (2021).
Noise
7.50 The site would remain in residential us e, with the proposal replacing one
dwellinghouse with 5no. self -contained residential flats. A Noise Assessment
Technical Note has been submitted, which confirms that the development would
not introduce a materially different land use or significant new source of noise-
Text extracted automatically from the PDF, so layout, tables and images are not shown. Only the start of this long document is shown here. Open the original PDF on LB Hillingdon’s website.