Policy information sourced from Lewisham Development Management Local Plan

DM Policy 9 Mixed use employment locations (MEL)

The Council will require applications for changes of use of B Use Class floorspace delivered as part of the comprehensive redevelopment of these sites promoted in the Core Strategy, to ensure that these sites continue to meet the Core Strategy aims for high density mixed use development that contributes to the local economy and provides a range of local employment opportunities, including lower cost accommodation suitable for starter businesses. Core Strategy Policy 4 requires at least 20% of the built floorspace of mixed use developments on these sites to be in the B Use Class. Future changes of use should ensure that the proportion of B uses within the development does not fall below that which was originally granted permission in line with the aims of the Core Strategy.

New development or proposals for a change of use in floorspace delivered as part of the comprehensive redevelopment of these sites promoted by the Core Strategy, should ensure that a variety of uses continues to be provided that take advantage of the location which is close to central London, and that spaces are supplied in flexibly specified buildings that allow for the continued employment functioning of an area in line with Core Strategy Policy 4, for businesses in identified growth sectors such as business services, food and the creative industries.

New proposals will need to be provided with an internal fit out to an appropriate level to ensure the deliverability and long term sustainability of the employment uses on the site and be designed to ensure future flexibility of use by a range of businesses in the B Use Classes in line with Core Strategy Policy 4 and Core Strategy Strategic Site Allocations 2, 3, 4, 5.

Proposals for changes of use of non residential floorspace to residential use delivered as part of the comprehensive redevelopment of these sites promoted by the Core Strategy will not be considered appropriate on MELs due to the need to ensure that the balance of uses on the site is retained.

For more information please see the Local Plan