Policy information sourced from the Lewisham Local Plan

SD9 Lewisham’s waterways

Strategic Objectives:

D A greener borough,

E Responding to the climate emergency,

G Healthy and safe communities,

H Securing the timely delivery of infrastructure.

A Waterways provide multifunctional social, economic and environmental benefits that support sustainable neighbourhoods and communities. The London Plan identifies the Capital’s waterway network under its Figure 9.6 London’s Network of Waterways (the Blue Ribbon Network). Development proposals should identify and respond positively to the unique attributes of waterways, giving particular consideration to their:

  • Environmental function and ecological qualities;
  • Contribution to the Borough’s network of open spaces;
  • Recreational and amenity value;
  • Distinctive features that help to shape and reinforce the Borough’s physical, cultural and historical character;
  • Support for the visitor economy; and
  • Potential to facilitate water transport, for both passengers and freight.

B Development proposals on sites containing or adjacent to a main river, ordinary watercourse or other water space must:

  • Demonstrate how the objectives of the Thames River Basin Management Plan, Vision for the Tidal Thames, London River Restoration Action Plan, Marine Plan for the South East and other relevant local guidance, including the River Corridors Improvement Plan SPD and Ravensbourne Catchment Improvement Plan, have been taken into account, where appropriate;
  • Ensure that there is no adverse impact on the natural functioning of the watercourse, including by maintaining an undeveloped buffer zone with an adequate set back distance from the watercourse, as agreed with the Council and the Environment Agency;
  • Investigate and maximise opportunities to enhance or restore river channels, flood flow pathways, floodplains and other natural flood management features with the objective of returning them to their natural state wherever possible;
  • Incorporate measures to enhance the ecological, amenity, recreational and historic value of water spaces, including by enhancing public access to these spaces; and
  • Contribute to a safe riverside environment by making appropriate provision for riparian life-saving equipment such as grab chains, access ladders, life buoys, along with information signage and CCTV.

C Development proposals should seek to improve water quality and must ensure that there is no deterioration in the quality of a watercourse or groundwater, in line with the European Water Framework Directive 2000.

D The Lewisham section of the Thames Policy Area is designated in the Local Plan, as reflected in the Policies Map and Figure 15.5. All new development within the Thames Policy Area will be expected to respond positively to the distinctive character and qualities of the River Thames and its surrounds, in line with Policy LNA 4 (Thames Policy Area and Deptford Creekside).

E Convoys Wharf is included within London’s network of safeguarded wharves. The Council will continue to safeguard Convoys Wharf taking into account the Ministerial safeguarding Direction for the wharf and extant planning consents. Development proposals involving water transport at Convoys Wharf will be supported where they comply with London Plan policy SI15 (Water transport), along with other relevant policies.

F Development proposals for water and marine based residential, commercial, community, recreational and transport uses (including moorings and jetties) alongside or within a waterway will only be supported where they:

  • Are demonstrably a water-dependent use;
  • Are appropriately located and designed, taking into account the nature and scale of the proposed use;
  • Respond positively to, and do not adversely impact on, the open character, historic setting and views of the waterway, its frontage (including foreshore) and the surrounding area;
  • Do not have a detrimental impact on river navigation and flood defence infrastructure;
  • Do not have a detrimental impact on the environment, including water quality in line with (B) above;
  • Do not impede or compromise existing public access points to the waterway, and extend or enhance access wherever possible; and
  • Ensure adequate access and servicing arrangements for all intended users of the development.

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