Planning Appeal
Update - You Did It!
Great news from the Planning Inspectorate. The appeal by the developers who want to convert the White Swan into a minimart and flats has been DISMISSED!
In coming to his conclusions, Inspector Kevin Savage weighed up the evidence from the developers on one hand, and from Greenwich Council and “Interested Parties” on the other, and agreed with the latter. And who were those “Interested Parties”? You!
And so, a massive thank you to all our supporters and everyone who took the time to write submissions against the appeal.
You can read more about this decision on The Greenwich Wire.
Background
In January 2024, the owners of the White Swan applied to Greenwich Council for permission to turn The White Swan from a pub to flats, with a rectangular box on the top for more flats and retail space on the ground floor.
Here is the original application
More than 200 people objected online while at least another 100 sent detailed objections to the planning department. In addition, 1,200 people signed a petition asking the council to force the owners of the White Swan to restore the pub to its original condition. ​
Greenwich Council did not make a decision within a strict timeframe, so Mendoza, the applicant, appealed to the Planning Inspectorate on the grounds of "non-determination" - an administrative technicality.
Objections
White Swan Music and Arts (WSMA) encouraged our supporters to object to this appeal. The process was not straightforward and we provided advice on effective arguments as well as technical advice for making the objection online. ​
While we wait to see the outcome of the appeal, WSMA would like to thank all supporters - and non-supporters - who objected to the appeal.
Please note the deadline for objections has now past. ​ Key dates may appear on the portal here - and of course, make sure you have joined our mailing list to receive the latest news from the appeal.