A hospice has launched a campaign against a housing development that would be built “just five metres” away from its boundary.

St Luke’s Hospice, in Kenton Road, Harrow, is urging Brent Council to halt plans for the nearby scheme, which will house “vulnerable” residents.

It launched a petition – which has already been signed by thousands of people – to help protect the interests of those who use the hospice.

There are concerns that, if it were approved, people living in the two-storey development would be able to see into patients’ gardens, situated just ten metres away.

Alpana Malde, chief executive of St Luke’s Hospice, said: “We support people in the last few weeks or days of their lives – an extremely emotional and vulnerable time for them and their loved ones.

“Ensuring the privacy and dignity of patients and families is of the highest importance.

“We strongly oppose any proposal which encroaches on our patient’s privacy and wellbeing.”

She added that there has been an increase in demand for hospice services and, were the work to go ahead, St Luke’s would have “no choice” but to close beds due to noise and dust issues.

The hospice has written to the council’s planning committee, asking it to vote down the proposals based on the stress it would cause to its residents.

Visit www.stlukes-hospice.org/petition to view the petition.

Brent Council has been contacted for comment.