Defeat for campaigners as controversial plans for the development of flats on the former site of a social club were given the green light by planning chiefs.

Proposals to construct on the site formerly occupied by Willesden New Social Club in Rucklidge Avenue, were unanimously voted through by members of the planning committee on Wednesday

Under plans submitted by Origin Housing Limited a five-storey building with 21 affordable flats will be built on the land.

This is the fourth application that has been submitted to develop flats on the site.

Residents saidthe proposed building design was “overbearing” as it is built out to the pavement edge, which is out of character with surrounding properties.

In making their decisions councillors explored the importance of developing on the site which has been derelict for more than a decade, and has attracted illegal activity such as drug dealing and prostitution.

Opposition to the plans also expressed privacy concerns, claiming rear gardens in neighbouring homes would be overlooked by the terraces on the upper floors.

Cllr Claudia Hector, Labour councillor for Kensal Green, who spoke against the plans at the meeting, said: “It is a obviously a disappointing and unwanted result for us.”

Telling the Times the build would not be befitting of the area, she added: “The quality of the build is not of the standard we wished for.

“This could potentially detract potential residents away from the area.”

A spokesman for Origin Housing said: “We’re pleased that we have been granted revised planning permission.

“The site has been derelict for the past 15 years and we will be providing 21 much needed affordable homes to the area.”