139 Grosvenor Avenue

Development planning

AZ Urban Studio has secured planning permission at appeal for the redevelopment of a site on Grosvenor Avenue, Islington, to build 10 two-bedroom apartments. The development includes the demolition of a pair of unattractive 1950s derelict semi-detached houses, which were previously used as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Designed by Fourthspace Architects, the replacement building will more closely resemble the character and form of the neighbouring properties and the broader surrounding context. The ten flats benefit from dual-aspect outlook with views over Grosvenor Avenue and the shared garden to the rear. Innovative sustainability features have been incorporated, including a green wall to the south elevation to reduce rainwater runoff whilst promoting biodiversity.

Since the scheme was refused at Planning Committee, AZ Urban Studio has led on all planning aspects of the appeal, working closely with Fourthspace as well as specialist viability consultants and legal team. AZ Urban Studio prepared the full Statement of Case, response to the Council’s Statement, and managed the submission and servicing of the appeal.

The project exemplifies our team’s skill and experience in planning, design and viability matters and the ability to steer complex projects in sensitive political / policy environments. Although relatively modest in size, the appeal covered several complex, disputed and rapidly evolving areas of planning policy and law relating to affordable housing provision on small sites.

The appeal was allowed with no on-site provision or contribution towards affordable housing.

This great project was completed delivering much needed new housing in Islington.