Public urged to attend and air their views on proposals for 2,000 new homes

Residents have been urged to attend a public meeting to oppose a major housing development which could see thousands of new homes and tower blocks dumped on the fringes of a popular reservoir and beauty spot.

Brent councillors are calling on residents to come to the town hall this weekend to register their opposition to proposals to build 2,000 new homes on the edge of the Brent Reservoir.

The planning application, which is being put forward by Barratt Metropolitan LLP, has attracted criticism amid fears the area, commonly known as the Welsh Harp, will have its unique environment spoiled.

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council, said: “The future of the Welsh Harp is too important to leave to chance.

“This is about protecting a beautiful nature reserve for our children and grandchildren. Please come if you possibly can.”

Both Labour councillors, residents and waterways charity The Canal and River Trust have all expressed concern over the proposals.

Ward councillor, Cllr Roxanne Mashari, who last week launched a campaign to stall the development said: “I would strongly encourage anyone concerned by these proposals to come along to the meeting this Saturday to have their say.”

The Welsh Harp is split between the boroughs of Barnet and Brent and the application is due to be considered by Barnet council’s planning committee due to it being on their land.

The public meeting is in Committee Rooms 1,2 & 3 in Brent Town Hall at 5-7pm this Saturday.

A Barratt Metropolitan spokesman previously told the Times they shared residents wishes to protect the environment and would create a “green buffer” along the entire length of the eastern shore of the reservoir.

He added: “A full environmental assessment - which looks at the potential impact the development could have on views, wildlife, recreation and traffic - has now been submitted to Barnet Council.”