Join the Community Review Panel

Southwark Council wants new members to join the Community Review Panel which reviews plans for future development in Old Kent Road.

There is a huge amount of development underway in the neighbourhood with much more to come. So it’s essential that the views of the community are heard and that local people have a say in decision-making.

The council wants to recruit around 7 local people to be members of the panel for at least a year.

You don’t need any experience or knowledge of planning or architecture to participate and Southwark especially wants to hear from people who aren’t already involved with a community group and whose voices may not have been heard so far.

The panel, which is independent of Southwark Council, was established in 2020, comprising 12 members plus a Chair, Gurmeet Sian.

Its remit is to discuss various proposals for development in and around Old Kent Road before they reach the council’s planning committee for a decision. This means that local planning applications can be shaped and adapted in response to input from the panel before getting to committee stage – ensuring better quality applications which better reflect local needs.

Applicants should be 18 or over and, ideally, will live or work locally and have a good knowledge of the area. Collectively, the panel members should represent a good cross-section of the local community (including their skills, interests, occupation, age, and ethnic origin).

David Stoker, a former panel member said:

“Being on a Community Review Panel became a highlight of my month. I’ve never felt so listened-to as a citizen. The meetings are well-run, they take time to explain things to you, and your time and life experience are valued. Join a panel if you care about your neighbourhood and want to be part of shaping its future for the better.”

Download an application form

To find out more or to request a paper application form, email community@frame-projects.co.uk or call 020 8164 9980.

Read more about the work of the Community Review Panel