Barnet Council will consider proposals made by Barratt Homes

A reservoir which is home to natural wildlife and provides a peaceful haven away from city life could have its landscape changed for good if a planning application is given the green light.

Proposals have been made by Barratt Homes to build around 2,000 new homes on the border of Barnet and Brent close to the Brent Reservoir as part of the West Hendon Development.

The development is also expected to include four tower blocks.

It is the second time the area, more commonly known as the Welsh Harp has been under threat from developments.

Four years ago local political activists and environmentalists saw off proposals for housing developments in the area.

Earmarked as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) the area is home to both birds and other wildlife.

Martin Francis, a member of Brent’s Green Party said: “This proposal is a warning about the shape of things to now that developers have been given free reign by the Coalition.

“It will ruin a unique local habitat and leisure haven that is treasured by many. It is not too late to cut the proposal back to one which both improves the current housing stock and preserves a Site of Special Scientific Interest.”

The application will be considered by Barnet Council’s planning committee