The inspector visited the ‘Rec’ to see the view for himself but decided that protecting the view of Harrow Hill
(which users of the ‘Rec’ have enjoyed for over a century and a quarter) is less important than the interests of a multi million pound development which will be very conspicuous on the skyline, especially in winter. It is fair to say that local politicians of all parties are furious about the inspector’s decision, but it will be difficult to overturn without expensive legal action through the High Court.
Harrow Council has also rejected the Dandara development on the old post office site in College Road. This would have imposed an even greater intrusion on the Harrow skyline, at nearly double the height of the tallest building in the town centre. This decision too may have to go to a planning enquiry. Both these cases highlight the need for a coherent masterplan for the centre of Harrow which would take into account the need to protect the appearance of the town centre and its views, as well as the effect on traffic and leisure facilities including Harrow Recreation Ground.
Meanwhile the incomplete Bradstowe House development with its abandoned crane is a terrible blot on the landscape, and serves as a monument to poor architecture and recession. If you would like to know more about the impact of proposed new developments on Harrow, please contact: Irene Wears, 1 Lorne Court, Whitehall Road, Harrow HA1 3BH, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
