Lewisham approves 20-flat Sydenham scheme after developer drops four-bed homes
Tengu Ltd will pay £67,246 in lieu of affordable housing at 27 Longton Avenue
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Lewisham Council’s Planning Committee approved a revised scheme for 20 flats at 27 Longton Avenue, Sydenham, on 12 August 2026. The development will replace a vacant site where a house was demolished in October 2023.
The new plans remove four-bedroom homes and add two storeys, increasing the number of units from eight to 20. The scheme will now include 11 two-bedroom flats and nine three-bedroom flats. Tengu Ltd, the developer, agreed to pay £67,246 in lieu of providing affordable housing on site.
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Objections focused on height and green space
During public consultation, 41 residents objected to the revised plans. Eight supported them, and six submitted additional comments. The Longton Avenue Residents’ Association, Sydenham Hill Ridge Neighbourhood Forum and the Sydenham Society all raised concerns.
The Sydenham Society argued the scheme would overdevelop the site and clash with the character of the area. The Sydenham Hill Ridge Neighbourhood Forum warned of encroachment into green space and potential impacts on drainage and wildlife. A resident speaking at the meeting described the changes as a "substantial intensification of development on a sensitive site."
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This proposal adds an entire fifth storey, increased depth and 12 additional flats. It is up to 3.5 metres taller than the approved scheme and up to 15.2 metres in total. That is not a minor change, a slight change, but a substantial intensification of development on a sensitive site and amounts to over-development.
Longton Avenue resident, speaking at the Planning Committee meeting
Councillors approved plans after legal advice
Cllr Tanya Dunne, who represents Sydenham ward, raised concerns about the lack of affordable housing and the impact on local bats and woodland. The committee adjourned to seek legal advice before voting.
After returning, Cllr Pauline Dall proposed approving the plans, citing the "tilted balance" in favour of development. The committee voted six in favour, one against and one abstention. Cllr Ed Sutton, who seconded the motion, said he did not believe there was a strong enough case to refuse the plans if they were later reviewed by the Planning Inspectorate.
What happens next
The decision notice will be issued within ten working days. Residents have six weeks from the date of the notice to request a review by writing to Lewisham Council’s planning department. If no review is requested, Tengu Ltd can begin construction.
Questions this report answers
+How many flats will be built at 27 Longton Avenue?
Lewisham Council approved 20 flats: 11 two-bedroom and nine three-bedroom units. The original scheme proposed eight larger homes, but the developer revised the plans to add two storeys and 12 more units.
+Will any of the new flats be affordable?
No affordable housing will be built on site. Tengu Ltd agreed to pay £67,246 to Lewisham Council to support affordable housing provision elsewhere in the borough.
+How many residents objected to the plans?
Forty-one residents objected during public consultation. Eight supported the plans, and six submitted additional comments. Local groups, including the Sydenham Society, also raised concerns.
+What can residents do if they disagree with the decision?
Residents have six weeks from the date of the decision notice to request a review by writing to Lewisham Council’s planning department. If no review is requested, the developer can begin construction.
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