We are delighted to let you know that the Planning Inspector has dismissed the appeal seeking permission to construct a private road through Hawkhirst Woods.
As your local MP and ward councillors, we have worked together to support residents and oppose this proposal. Ola and Gayle represented residents at the Planning Inspectorate hearing on 25 August, while I wrote directly to the Planning Inspector supporting Croydon Council’s refusal of the application.
As your Member of Parliament, I argued in my letter that the Article 4 Direction covering the site meant that planning permission was required for the proposed access arrangements. I also raised concerns about whether the road was genuinely required for forestry purposes, its potential impact on highway safety and biodiversity, the risk to protected trees and the lack of clarity about the applicant’s intentions.
My letter was formally submitted as evidence at the hearing and is specifically recorded among the documents considered by the Inspector. We have included a copy of the letter with this email.
In her decision, the Inspector concluded that the proposed works would amount to the formation and laying out of a new means of access. Because permitted development rights for such works have been removed by the Article 4 Direction, the proposal falls outside the scope of permitted development and would require planning permission.
The Inspector therefore dismissed the appeal.
This is excellent news for Hawkhirst Woods and for the residents who worked so hard to protect this important part of Kenley. We would particularly like to thank Hawkhirst Environment Protection Action, Hawkhirst Road Limited and all the local residents who submitted evidence, attended the hearing and made their concerns heard.
We will continue to work together to protect Hawkhirst Woods, Kenley’s green spaces and the character of our local area.
You can read our full update and access the Inspector’s decision here
