Wards Wharf, Royal Docks, Blocks A to C , Wards Wharf Approach , London, E16 2EX

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area
• whether or not the proposed development would make adequate provision to ensure fire safety
• the effect of the proposal on the long-term protection and sustainable operation of nearby industrial uses
• the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of existing occupants with particular regard to overlooking and outlook
• whether the proposed development would make adequate provision for waste and recycling facilities
• whether the proposed development would provide an overall reduction in emissions
• whether there has been a satisfactory level of community engagement with the existing residents on the site
• whether the proposed development is in a suitable location

What decided it

The harmful effect on character and appearance combined with insufficient evidence on fire safety, noise mitigation, living conditions, waste provision and emissions reduction, together with inadequate community engagement, significantly and demonstrably outweighed the limited housing benefits.

The modest housing benefit of nine dwellings was significantly and demonstrably outweighed by harmful impacts on character and appearance and unresolved concerns regarding fire safety, industrial use protection, neighbouring living conditions, waste management and emissions reduction, resulting in the proposal not constituting sustainable development under paragraph 11(d)(ii) of the Framework.