Welsh Harp development waved through by the Mayor of London

Cllr Roxanne Mashari has vowed to continue the fight (Image: Archant)

Last night the controversial scheme which would see the creation of 2,000 homes at the nature reserve were given the green light by Boris Johnson.

The proposals which residents and politicians from all parties on both Brent and Barnet objected against were initially voted through by Conservative-run Barnet Council two weeks ago.

However the final decision lay in the hands of the Tory politician.

Critics of the scheme, submitted by Barratt Metropolitan LLP, claim the new homes will spoil the landscape of the reservoir.

Barnet Council received 350 written objections from residents as well as a letter signed unanimously by Brent council’s executive members and an 850-strong petition.

Earlier this week, Cllr Alison Hopkins, chair of the Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee, sent a letter to the Mayor’s office objecting the plans saying the area is one of only 36 of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in London, the scheme would cause risk to flora and fauna (plant and animal life) and inadequate assessments and safeguards had taken place.

Cllr Roxanne Mashari, a Labour councillor in the Welsh Harp ward, told the Times she was disappointed and dismayed with the Mayor’s decision but the fight will go on.

She said: “We hope he would have listened to the hundreds of residents from Brent and Barnet, cross-party politicians and organisation who are all against the development.

“The campaign will continue and will look at what steps we can take next whether to seek a judicial review or take it to the Secretary of State.

“”Welsh Harp is far too important for us to give up now.”

A spokesman for the Mayor’s office said: “This forms a vital part of the regeneration of the West Hendon Estate, providing 2,000 much-needed homes in the area, therefore after careful consideration, the Deputy Mayor for Planning is content for the application to proceed.”