Policy information sourced from the Lewisham Local Plan

EC21 Visitor accommodation

Strategic Objectives:

C A thriving local economy that tackles inequalities.

A Development proposals for serviced visitor accommodation must be appropriately located at sites within or at the edge of town centres, or other sites that are well-connected by public transport.

B Development proposals for serviced visitor accommodation should ensure a range of high quality provision in the Borough catered to the varying needs of visitors. Proposals will only be supported where they:

  • Are proportionate to their location in terms of size, scale and function;
  • Do not result in a harmful overconcentration of serviced visitor accommodation in the area;
  • Comply with the relevant London Plan parking standards;
  • Ensure adequate access, drop-off/pick-up and servicing arrangements;
  • Are of a high quality design, ensure adequate space and amenity for occupants and provide sufficient choice for people who require an accessible bedroom;
  • Make appropriate arrangements for long-term adaptability and sustainability; and
  • Demonstrate that an agreement is in place to secure an operator prior to the commencement of the development.

C Development proposals for serviced visitor accommodation must be designed with positive frontages, including active ground floor frontages. Where the development incorporates ancillary uses and facilities these should be made available for public use, where appropriate, and access not unreasonably restricted.

D Development proposals for visitor accommodation must not result in the net loss of housing, including through the conversion or change of use of dwelling units.

E The use of a residential property for ‘temporary sleeping accommodation’ (short-term let or holiday let) must not exceed 90 nights within a calendar year.

F Development proposals for the conversion or change of use of serviced visitor accommodation to housing must demonstrate that the relevant Local Plan policies for housing will be satisfied including on design quality, space standards and provision of affordable housing.

For more information and policy context please see the Lewisham Local Plan