Plans to replace a 19th century building with new homes is at the top of Brent Council’s planning committee agenda on Wednesday (August 12).

Councillors will assess the scheme in Morland Gardens, Stonebridge, which seeks to provide 65 homes at London affordable rent, alongside workspace and a new adult education centre.

Planning officers recommend that the application be approved, though there has been some opposition from neighbouring properties and Willesden Local History Society.

Many are concerned about the loss of a listed, Victorian-era building, with one objector suggesting the façade of the building should be maintained at the very least.

There are also concerns about the design of the new building, the quality of the accommodation being offered and the wider impact on the surrounding area.

Council officers responded to each area of concern in their report, suggesting the accommodation is high-quality and any impact on neighbouring homes is “acceptable”, particularly when measured against the “wider benefits of the scheme”.

This line was used to counter questions around the loss of heritage – officers pointed out that the development, which they say will provide 65 “genuinely affordable” homes for people in the borough, is too good an opportunity to pass up.

The planning committee will also review extension proposals at St Nicholas Preparatory School, in Salmon Street, as part of next week’s agenda.