Barnet Council approves controversial 400-home Colindale development
Barnet Council approves controversial 400-home Colindale development
Barnet Council approves controversial 400 home - Barnet Council has given the green light to demolish two aging tower blocks in Colindale, which were identified as posing an "unreasonable risk of collapse" due to structural issues. This decision sets the stage for a major overhaul of the site, transforming it into a new residential complex of nearly 400 homes. The approval, which sparked debate among council members, marks a significant shift in the area’s urban landscape.
The case for demolition
The two buildings—Silk House and Shoelands Courts—were constructed in the 1960s using the large panel construction method. This technique, while cost-effective at the time, has now been deemed insufficient for long-term safety. A council report highlighted that these structures "only have a limited lifespan" and are now largely vacant, with residents relocated to safer accommodations. The report emphasized that the site's condition necessitates a "comprehensive redevelopment" to address both safety concerns and the urgent need for additional housing.
“The existing tower blocks were built using the ‘large panel construction method’ from the 1960s. Speaking at Tuesday’s committee meeting, a council officer warned these panels ‘only have a limited lifespan’.”
The redevelopment plans, proposed by Council-run Barnet Homes, envision new buildings that range from six to 29 storeys. This ambitious project aims to replace the outdated structures with modern housing that meets contemporary standards. While the scale of the development has drawn mixed reactions, planners argue that it aligns with the site's potential as part of the Colindale Growth and Opportunity Area, where "higher density development is supported in principle."
Design and community benefits
The new development includes a variety of housing options, with a notable portion dedicated to affordable units. Specifically, 159 of the 388 proposed homes will be designed for families, featuring up to four bedrooms. This mix is intended to cater to diverse needs while contributing to the borough’s housing targets. Additionally, the plans incorporate a new footbridge and a dedicated pedestrian and cycle route, linking the estate to Montrose Park. These features are expected to enhance connectivity and recreational opportunities for residents.
Planners have also emphasized a "car-lite" approach, aiming to provide one parking space for every five homes. This strategy reduces traffic congestion and promotes sustainable mobility. However, the design has not been universally welcomed. Conservative committee member Josh Mastin-Lee raised concerns about the height of the new buildings, suggesting that the development’s vertical scale may be excessive for the area.
Opposition and policy debates
The approval process revealed significant division within the planning committee. While some members supported the project, others voiced apprehensions. Shimon Ryde, a fellow Conservative, provided the most detailed critique, arguing that the high proportion of one-bedroom flats—accounting for 40% of the total—was "extremely disappointing." He contended that this design choice "misses an opportunity for the borough to prioritize family-sized accommodation."
“The redevelopment would see 150 – almost 40 per cent – of the new homes built as one-beds. Cllr Ryde argued this was ‘out of kilter’ with the council’s Local Plan and represents ‘a missed opportunity for us as a borough to bring forward family-sized accommodation’.”
Ryde’s concerns were echoed by other committee members, who questioned the balance between affordable housing and private residences. Council officers defended the proposal, noting that private one-bedroom flats would help fund the construction of more affordable units. They also cited local demand trends, explaining that the borough currently requires more houses than larger flats. One planning officer, addressing Ryde’s criticisms directly, stated: “As you know—having been on the committee for some time—planning is an art form, requiring us to weigh multiple considerations.”
Despite these arguments, the development remains a point of contention. The council’s report acknowledged that planning applications "never have full alignment" with all policies, necessitating a pragmatic approach. Officers explained that the project’s location within the former buildings’ footprint was chosen to mitigate flood risks, limiting the scope for varied layouts but ensuring practicality.
The vote and its implications
The approval was secured through a close vote, with three members in favor and three against. Richard Barnes, the Labour chair of the planning committee, cast the deciding vote, endorsing the development. His support was crucial in overcoming opposition, though the debate is expected to continue. The decision now moves the project forward, with construction likely to begin in the coming months.
For residents and local advocates, the redevelopment represents both promise and potential disruption. While the new homes will provide much-needed housing, the loss of the existing blocks—a key part of the community’s identity—has raised concerns about heritage and displacement. The council has promised an extensive pre-application engagement process, beginning in June 2023, to address these issues. However, critics argue that the final decision prioritizes housing supply over community input.
As the development takes shape, it will serve as a test case for how Barnet balances modernization with preservation. The success of the project could set a precedent for similar urban renewal efforts across London. Yet, its approval also underscores the challenges of reconciling housing needs with architectural and social considerations in rapidly growing areas.
Related news and context
The Colindale development is part of a broader trend of urban regeneration in London, where aging infrastructure often gives way to ambitious plans. However, it has drawn comparisons to other controversial projects, such as the recent vote that deemed a London tower block the "worst" new building in the UK. Meanwhile, other developments like a proposed "gated community" near Canary Wharf have also faced scrutiny, highlighting ongoing debates about density, accessibility, and community character.
With the approval secured, the next steps will focus on securing funding and addressing logistical challenges. The project’s timeline will be critical, as it aims to deliver 388 new homes while maintaining the site’s accessibility. The inclusion of the footbridge and pedestrian routes may help ease concerns about the development’s impact on the local environment and connectivity.
As the council moves forward, the Colindale project will be closely watched for its implications on housing policy, urban planning, and community development. The balance between safety, affordability, and modernization will remain central to its legacy, shaping how London’s boroughs approach similar challenges in the future.