More than 1,000 object to 'monstrous' tower block plans in west London

Plans for a “monstrous” 287-home development in west London have sparked fury among residents, with more than 1,000 objections lodged over fears it could “overwhelm” the neighbourhood.

The site was previously granted planning permission for 213 homes in 2020, but developer Fancourt Group now wants to increase that number to 287.

Under the revised plans submitted to Ealing Council, Block A would stand at 15 storeys, Block B at 11 storeys and Block C at 10 storeys.

The development would also include 254 square metres of ground-floor space which could be used for shops or community facilities.

Fancourt Group says the scheme would help tackle the housing crisis by delivering 287 social rent homes on previously developed land.

“The proposed development proposes 287 social rent residential units on brownfield land in a highly sustainable location, which could alleviate some of the critical need for affordable housing in Ealing,” the planning statement reads.

But, the proposals have prompted widespread opposition from residents, who have raised concerns about the impact on neighbouring homes, local infrastructure, traffic, parking and the environment.

A diagram of where the development would be located in Hanwell

Fancourt Group LtD/ Design and Access Statement

Some objectors argue that the development would “destroy the heart of our ‘little village’ vibe in Hanwell,” while others fear the height of the buildings would lead to a loss of daylight and privacy.

One resident said: “This is a monstrous proposal, unpopular with many of the local people, and it seems to have gotten even worse since the original proposal.

“It will exacerbate many existing problems relating to [...] overcrowding, and will spoil the look of the area.”

They added: “I cannot see any good reason for building such a huge building in a relatively small space. Please listen to the people who are being asked to live with it.”

Another resident raised concerns about the pressure the development could place on local services.

They said: “This proposal constitutes a massive overdevelopment, with little thought for the existing character of the area, or the implications for the already strained infrastructure, e.g. educational, medical and parking facilities.

“It will result in the loss of privacy and light for many neighbours whose homes will be overlooked, and will increase air and traffic pollution in the local area more widely.”

According to Fancourt Group, the development would provide a mix of properties ranging from one-bedroom apartments to three-bedroom family homes.

The developer says a high proportion of the homes would benefit from good levels of daylight and natural ventilation, while all properties would meet London Plan space standards.

It also proposes that 10 percent of the homes would be wheelchair accessible. Despite the objections, some residents have indicated they would support a smaller development on the site.

One suggested “an appropriate development would be a 3-storey high mix of light commercial and residential use”, arguing that a lower-rise scheme would be more in keeping with the surrounding neighbourhood.

But some objectors have described the proposals as an “overdevelopment”, arguing that the number and height of the buildings would have an unacceptable impact on the area.

Residents are now looking ahead to Ealing Council's planning committee meeting in November with concerns that the revised scheme could be given the green light by planning officers.

A decision on the application has yet to be made.

Fancourt Group Ltd has been contacted by The Standard for comment.