Mixed-use scheme in Wandsworth to go ahead after a successful challenge by Planning Potential

We’re thrilled to hear that our client Planning Potential successfully challenged a refusal for a mixed-use scheme in Wandsworth. The scheme includes new industrial floor space and nine flats within a Locally Significant Industrial Area.

Although neither of us were involved in the initial planning application, Planning Potential were later appointed by the overall client Lawford & Sons Limited, following two refusals for development at the site. Shortly after this, Heather Vickers and Katy Lister from Planning Potential’s residential team reached out to our Water & Flood Risk team and presented us with a rather complicated flood related problem.

The problem involved water flow from multiple directions down Garratt Lane nearby the proposed site. For us to prove that the flood water wouldn’t reach the site, our team reviewed the Environment Agency hydraulic model of the River Wandle in detail to understand the flow dynamics in this area of London. It was concluded that the site was not at risk of flooding in the design event due to the ground levels being slightly higher than the design flood water level.

As part of our scope of works we also undertook a SuDS assessment for the development to ensure compliance with the local policy for new developments. We were able to reduce surface water rates from the site with the introduction of green roofs and permeable paving.

In addition to this, we considered it vital to provide residents with reassurance regarding flooding and as such produced an Emergency Plan outside of the scope of works. Although the development itself was not at risk of flooding, supporting elements to the development such as electricity could fail during a flood event resulting in residents wanting to leave and seek accommodation elsewhere. We therefore felt it was necessary to reassure them and to detail where they should safely evacuate to, in the unlikely event of a flood.

“Thanks for all that you did on this one. A great win! It’s been fantastic working with Claire and the team – looking forward to more projects!”

Heather Vickers, Associate Director at Planning Potential