I was surprised to read Councillor Stephen Greek’s claim (“Good news, but vote was close”, Your Views, February 12’) that Labour does not support a new ‘opportunity area’ in Harrow & Wealdstone.

In fact, I have always welcomed this designation.

However, unlike Cllr Greek and his Tory colleagues, I believe the opportunity area should be about making life better for existing residents and stakeholders.

That’s why the Labour group and I urged amendments to the London Plan to facilitate genuine community consultation and to protect areas from unacceptable development like tower blocks.

Cllr Greek, by contrast, seems content to blindly accept whatever vision London Mayor Boris Johnson may have for the area, which, as we’ve seen in places like Old Oak and Earls Court, is not about serving existing residents and their aspirations.

I also pointed out that there won’t be a viable and successful opportunity area unless upfront investment is made to unlock development potential without putting extra strain on local services.

I called for enhanced public transport facilities (including step-free access to Harrow on the Hill Station and redevelopment of the bus station), better roads and parking, and social infrastructure like schools, medical facilities, and community centres.

It’s worth remembering that, on his election, it was Tory Mayor Johnson who scrapped £25million funding allocated for step-free access at Harrow on the Hill Station.

Our amendment on the London Plan changes were about strengthening policies on regeneration and housing. Pity the Tories voted against it.

Navin Shah

London Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow.