Application for monster 17 storey tower block goes “under the radar”

A planning application for a massive 17 storey tower block and additional buildings in the centre of Edgware has caused alarm amongst residents. The application, to redevelop Premier House and the surrounding area (102-124 Station Road), includes 122 residential united in four blocks over 17 storeys, redevelopment of the rear car park as well as environmental improvements to Station Road and Church Way, a pedestrian site access from Station Road and Church Way and vehicular site access from Church Way. Local resident Myk Tucker told My Edgware News: “This planning application seems to have gone under the radar for local people. “Apparently the council only consulted within 150 metres of the site, which for a scheme of this size seems completely insufficient. “It will dominate the horizon for miles around and with the inadequate parking for the scores of new apartments (and loss of existing parking from the use of this land) will add to the parking troubles in this area. “From looking at the drawings it also seems apparent that there will be a loss of a restaurant on Station Road which once demolished will allow access into the new residential complex. “There was a scheme for a 22 storey block here a year or two back but this was refused. “So now we have an equally massive proposal which should also be refused on grounds of the sheer bulk, size and scale being inappropriate for the area and more in keeping with central London not an outer London suburb like Edgware.” Andrew Dismore, London assembly member for Barnet and Camden, added his objections. He said: “Premier House is being converted to flats under a relaxation of planning rules brought in by the Conservative led Government, with a significant impact on the businesses and charities which had to relocate from there. “I do not believe this application should be passed on a number of grounds. The size, mass and height are too big, the design is discordant and overbearing. There is insufficient parking spaces, and the development will have a severely detrimental impact on already struggling neighbours. “There is not enough open space or amenity space, there is no affordable housing being provided and the consultation did not include enough people. I therefore urge you to reject this application.” Reichmann Properties, who own Premier House, had not responded to request for comment at the time of writing.