Harrow Council approves new seven-storey flat block

Harrow Council has granted planning permission for a seven-storey apartment block on Station Road, Harrow-on-the-Hill. The development, proposed by Quintas Homes, will see the demolition of the existing building, currently occupied by Jamaican restaurant Smokey Fridays, to make way for 12 new homes and commercial space on the ground floor. The decision was made by the council's planning committee.

Concerns over noise and height

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During the planning committee meeting, objections were raised regarding the potential impact of the new residential units on the area's night-time economy. Specifically, concerns were voiced about future residents complaining about noise from the nearby Trinity Bar music venue, which operates until 4am. Christopher Perdue, the owner of Trinity Bar, stated that the proposed flats are located very close to his venue and that the area already experiences significant noise from late-night activities. He warned that introducing new residents could lead to complaints and create conflict with established businesses.

The developer's agent countered these concerns, noting that the street already has existing residential properties that coexist with the night-time economy. They suggested the new development would suit individuals who prefer to live in a busy town centre environment. A noise assessment was also presented, which concluded that with mitigation measures such as acoustic glazing and mechanical ventilation, the impact on future residents would be negligible.

Affordable housing and committee decision

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Members of the planning committee also questioned the absence of any affordable housing within the development. Under the London Plan, private developments are typically expected to provide 35 per cent affordable housing. However, financial viability assessments commissioned by both the developer and Harrow Council indicated that the scheme could not support any affordable housing contributions, projecting potential commercial losses. Committee chair Councillor Marilyn Ashton commented on the difficulties in providing affordable homes, citing soaring build costs and economic factors.

Despite these concerns, Councillor Ashton indicated that there were no sufficient planning grounds to refuse the proposal that would withstand an appeal. She described the building as not particularly tall and having an attractive design that would fit into the town centre. The plans were ultimately approved by a split vote, with five Conservative members voting in favour and two Labour members voting against the scheme.

“It’s not particularly a tall building… I’ve seen much, much taller buildings go up in our town centre than this one and it’s actually quite an attractive design. I don’t think it’s going to look out of place there at all.”

Cllr Marilyn Ashton, committee chair