A controvercial planning application has been approved by the council to give the green light to redevelopment of the Goldhawk Road industrial estate.

At a planning committee meeting on September 23, councillors debated the strongly contested plans by developers London Newcastle to build 57 new houses and flats, along with eight commercial units, at the privately-owned site.

Some neighbouring residents have campaigned against the scheme, fearing it will cause traffic and parking problems, place new demands on local services and drive away local businesses.

Concerns about the design of the scheme were also voiced, although officers pointed to the changes the developers made to their proposals after extensive local consultation, which included the council's first-ever planning forum between the developers and residents to debate the scheme.

Councillors approved the application by a majority vote after a two-hour questioning of planning officers.

During the meeting officers examined objections and challenged the acceptability of displacing several businesses, including recording studios Soundhouse and drink makers Innocent, who together employ more than 170 people.

Planning officers advised that the urgent need for new homes and the improvements made to the scheme justified its approval.

According to the council, the scheme also provides new space for businesses.

Committee chairman Councillor Alex Chalk said: "This was a particularly difficult decision.

"The council has tried to do all it can to accommodate the concerns of neighbouring residents but we had to heed officers' advice that there simply were not sufficient grounds to refuse the improved plans.

"The law says our planning decisions have to be in line with the London Plan and local planning policies unless there are very special circumstances.

"The officers gave clear advice that despite the displacement of these businesses, on balance the proposals complied with planning policies and government guidance."

In recognition of the modest impact on services the new homes will bring, London Newcastle will contribute £300,000 to improvements to local health care, children's play facilities in nearby Ravenscourt Park, and promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle in local primary schools.

The developer will also pay for traffic calming measures at Vinery Way and necessary local roadworks.

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