DEVELOPERS were criticised for starting work on an Edgware tower block without planning permission.

But Barratt London was granted approval to go ahead with the work by Barnet Council’s planning committee in Hendon Town Hall last night (November 26).

The proposals for the Stonegrove Estate, currently being regenerated by Barratt in partnership with the council, include building an extra level on a four-storey tower block, and replacing a number of planned one and two-bed flats with three and four-bed ones.

Critics fear it will increase density in the area, and lead to parking problems.

Stuart Clark, speaking on behalf of Barratt London, said the proposals would “enhance” the estate, and create more family homes.

He said: “It is considered these amendments are beneficial to the overall design, balance and appearance.”

But he admitted work had already begun on the fifth storey of the tower block without planning permission.

Mr Clark said: “We have started erecting the steel frame of the floor. We have proceeded at risk but we did submit the application in July. We will hold our hands up but it is a steel frame.”

Labour councillor Jim Tierney criticised the move, and said it was “not commendable”.

He added: “It is not as if you are new to the process.”

Times Series:

Work has already begun on the tower block in Edgware

Rhona Myers, who lives on the Harrow side of Stonegrove, told the committee it was “substantially different” from what was originally approved two years ago.

She said: “The total number of units may be the same, but the density would increase. Parking in the surrounding street is already at straining point. We just do not have the infrastructure to absorb further density in this heavily populated area.

“Adding a fifth storey would completely change the street scene, and override what you only two years ago described as ‘best practice’. This is no minor variation, and should not be considered.”

Councillors voted along party lines, with the six Conservative members voting for it and the five Labour members against.