Plans for seven new homes near a railway line were approved, despite concerns around living conditions for new residents.

Harrow Council’s planning committee granted permission for a development in Pinner Road, in between West Harrow and North Harrow Stations.

It will provide seven flats – six two-bed units and one one-bed – across a three-storey building in a “high-quality” new development.

However, some councillors and those living nearby suggested it was not an “ideal” location for new homes, given its proximity to the train tracks.

Cllr Marilyn Ashton, deputy leader of Harrow Conservatives, said she was “not enthusiastic” about the proposal but, since it complied with planning policy, is “something [the committee] will have to put up with”.

“I don’t think it’s an ideal outcome for future occupiers,” she said.

“It will be up to those people to decide themselves if it’s tolerable to live in.”

There were also some concerns from those living in Pinner Road about the impact a new development would have on the area.

Objectors suggested the new building would affect the light and privacy of neighbouring homes, while they said disruption from building work could attract rodents from the railway.

They also criticised the design of the proposal – something “not in keeping with the 1930s-style” of the area – and the fact that, despite it being put forward as a car-free development, it could put added strain on parking.

Sarah King, of AKT Planning and Architecture, said the appearance of the development is in keeping with the “mixed character of the area” and assured neighbours that it would be built at a suitable distance away.

She added the “accessible” nature of the site would encourage people to walk, cycle, or use public transport as opposed to relying on cars.