Plans to build a block of flats up to seven storeys that would tower over a residential street were emphatically refused planning permission.

Seven of the eight members on Brent Council’s planning committee voted against plans to build the block of 70 homes in St Paul’s Avenue, Willesden, on the basis that it would have a negative impact on neighbours.

They cited a loss of daylight and sunlight – particularly affecting numbers 75 and 75a – as well as unsuitable design that would affect the character of the street.

A previous application for the site – currently used as an MOT centre and car wash – was refused on similar grounds.

Cllr Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, who represents Willesden Green ward, spoke against the proposals on behalf of concerned residents and her fellow councillor Tom Miller.

“I still think there are areas that need resolving – I don’t think enough has been done to satisfy the objections of those living nearby,” she said.

“Housing is needed. But does this development qualify to meet those needs? We don’t think so.”

Two neighbours also addressed the planning committee and suggested that such a scheme was “suited to inner-city living” and was “out of place” in Willesden.

They added that, while they appreciate the need for housing in Brent, it needs to be “appropriate”.

The developers said they had worked to achieve a “balance” at the site, aiming to address residents’ concerns and produce a viable scheme.

They suggested that the project would provide “much-needed housing” in a spot that has suffered from anti-social behaviour and break-ins in the past.

And despite support from another neighbour, who championed the extra housing, the natural surveillance it would bring and the long-term benefits of regeneration in the area, it was comfortably voted down.