Planning permission had already been granted on appeal for up to 1,350 residential units as part of a mixed-use scheme on the site with buildings up to 9 storeys in height and Council officers had recommended this larger scheme for approval to Members. The layout and iteration of the residential blocks did not differ from this consented scheme, the only material difference being the increase in the height of the development.

Having considered a number of viewpoints, the Inspector was unable to agree with the developer’s view that the increased height would add visual interest to the skyline. She found that the scheme would be in stark contrast and totally at odds with the established suburban character of the neighbourhood and would harm the townscape. The additional planning benefits of the larger scheme did not outweigh this harm.

Annabel Graham Paul successfully appeared for the London Borough of Barnet in resisting the appeal.