A planning application has been submitted to Richmond Council to extend the coffee shop, Neighbourhood Café, at Teddington Railway Station.

The application seeks permission for the "Change of Use of existing taxi rank area (Sui Generis) and internal and external alterations to facilitate the extension of the existing coffee shop (Use Class E)".

The applicant added: "Works include the insertion of a new entrance door in place of an existing front window, replacement of an existing roller shutter with fixed glazing facing the station ticket hall, and the removal of an internal partition wall between the two aforementioned spaces."

Drawing of the proposals for the ciffee shop (Image via Richmond Council planning applications)

 In an application document, the applicant, Mrs Farah Syed, said: "We will be setting up a high quality community coffee shop (with gift wall) in the station's premises. As well as the station's users, we would also like to attract the local community to enjoy the space, either as customers or staff members.

"In order to improve the functioning and desirability of the space, we believe a direct and dedicated entrance from the road, would attract the local neighbourhoods. Therefore, we propose one alteration, which involves changing one of the windows to a cafe entrance door, to enhance curbside appeal, visibility and accessibility.

"We are committed to preserving the character of the building and so would maintain the authentic look and feel of the building by conserving the decorative moulding currently around the window, extending to the ground so the full door is encased in the moulding, in a similar manner to the other existing door at the front left of the building.

"The glass door will be made of energy efficient laminated glass, providing a modern, aesthetically pleasing and practical finish, with clean lines and a minimalist design.

"The combination of modern glass teamed with the historical features of the decorative moulding and surrounding character of the building will create an updated, modern, yet classical feel that has had positive impacts on historic buildings throughout London. Craftsmen with experience in upgrading windows and doors in historic and listed buildings will undertake the job. 

"South Western Railway's Social and Commercial Development Manager will support the proposal for the conversion of the window into a new doorway."

Teddington Railway Station is a Grade II listed building.

The council's decision due date is 10 October 2025.

You can view the full application here.