I'm disappointed by last night's decision by the Planning Committee to approve 8 flats on 20 Manor Way in Purley. I referred this application and supported the 40+ objectors arguing against this application last night in front of the committee. Chris Philp MP also opposed this application.
Unfortunately hands were tied because the previous Labour-dominated Committee had approved an application for 8 flats back in 2018, which still had planning consent - and this was a slightly modified application. Previous approvals are a material planning consideration and as such we will still have to live with Labour's decisions.
The Conservative councillors on the Committee showed empathy with the residents of Manor Way and argued that had this been a completely new application, they would never have voted to approve it. They agreed that the plan was out of character with the rest of the street and was density-led rather than design-led.
The Labour councillors on the Committee, on the other hand, showed their apathy and even contempt for the residents of Manor Way. I was appalled by some of their councillors' comments.
I am very grateful to local resident Paresh who spoke passionately against the application on behalf of residents of Manor Way, surrounding roads and the Webb Estate conservation area - and to those who made their representations.
Last night's decision only reinforced my view that we need to support this administration in delivering a new Local Plan for Croydon that backs residents and then work hard to get Jason Perry re-elected and secure more Conservative councillors in 2026. We also need to ensure the return of our hardworking local MP, Chris Philp who has strongly stood up for local residents when it comes to planning.
