Chipping Barnet MP Theresa Villiers has welcomed the decision by Barnet Council to throw out a huge extension of the North London Business Park development.
Theresa spoke at the planning committee meeting last night to express her strong opposition to the plans for nearly 2500 flats because of their height and density. A large and loud group of residents was also there at Hendon Town Hall to express their views.
The planning committee unanimously refused the application by Comer Homes. The company already has consent for 1350 units, thanks to an appeal granted in 2020. However, Comer then came back with an application for over a thousand more flats.
“I am delighted the planning committee agreed with me, and many local people, that this an overdevelopment which would greatly damage the outer suburban character of the local neighbourhood,” said Theresa.
“I would like to thank everyone who braved the weather to come to the meeting and make their feelings clear. They care about Barnet and understand that huge developments like this are intrusive and put an intolerable strain on local services.”
In her speech to the committee, Theresa said: “Buildings of up to 13-storeys would be wholly out of keeping with the character of an area largely consisting of one and two storey homes.
“The blocks will be taller than any nearby building, they would be visible for miles around, and would contravene policies in the Barnet Local Plan. It would mean a visible urbanisation of an open, low-rise, outer suburban area.”
She added: “Allowing 2428 units could increase population by 5000 or more, placing intolerable strain on local services. GP expansion is already needed because of rising healthcare demand. A site for a GP practice in the development won’t solve the problem because no promise has been made of additional doctors.”
Theresa first began campaigning against overdevelopment in North London Business Park seven years ago in 2015. She has vowed to continue her opposition to the enlarged plan for the site if Comer Homes appeal against Barnet Council's rejection of their proposal.
