MP calls application ‘grotesquely out of character’

Plans to demolish The Queensbury pub in Willesden Green and replace it with a 10-storey high block of flats have come under fire from an MP.

Sarah Teather, MP for Brent Central, has attacked a planning application from Fairview New Homes which would see the pub and Conservative Club in Walm Lane torn down and replaced with 56 new homes.

According to the application, currently under consultation until November 8, Fairview wants to replace the building with 19 one-bed flats, 26 two-bed flats and 11 three-bed flats.

Ms Teather said: “A ten-story tower block in the middle of Willesden Green is grotesquely out of character for the local area. As a Willesden resident I am appalled at these plans.

“The Queensbury is a popular local pub which draws people into Willesden. If this development goes ahead it will have a devastating impact on the high street as not only will we lose this much loved pub and local hub we will also lose vital community meeting areas.

“With the closure of Cricklewood library and the redevelopment of Willesden Green Library I am afraid that the parent and toddler groups that currently use the buildings will really struggle to find alternative places in Willesden to hold their meetings.”

Ms Teather joins former Mayor of London Ken Livingstone in voicing her opposition to the plans. The Times revealed earlier today (Monday) how management at the bar said that The Queensbury Deli would have to go if The Queensbury pub was demolished as it could not be maintained on its own.

Fairview New Homes was unavailable for comment.