LookWest News

Dandara's scheme for the former post office site in Harrow has been rejected following a planning inquiry.

The Inspector ruled that the scheme was not of a high enough quality for the site, but did not comment on their scale - which could allow Dandara to submit new plans similar to the three blocks of flats up to 19 storeys high containing 410 flats on the former Post Office site (pictured) on College Road in Harrow Town Centre. LB Harrow had already refused permission for the scheme, with the former Conservative opposition opposed to the bulk and height.

The new Labour planning portfolio holder Councillor Keith Ferry told the Harrow Times that now was the time to develop new plans in collaboration with the developer, saying: “The best way forward now would be to sit down with Dandara and discuss what would be acceptable on this site".

Andrew Wagstaff, group property director for Dandara, told the Harrow Times they were “disappointed”, particularly as the plans were refused on design rounds – art deco tower blocks which they say were a reaction to advice from Harrow Council officers.

Dandara are taking some heart from the decision, particularly from the apparent acceptance of the height of the development. Andrew Wagstaff told the Times: “Dandara is pleased that the decision confirmed the acceptability of all the other important principles including the appropriateness of a tall building, the height of a tall building at 19 storeys, the proposed density, a residential led development, public spaces, the provision of the footbridge, level of contributions and highways issues."

He said Dandara are still committed to the project, and looking forward to working with the Council on revisions.