Plans for more than 100 student homes in a building up to eight storeys high have been given the green light, despite opposition from those living nearby.

Brent Council’s planning committee narrowly voted in favour of a scheme in Queens Parade, Willesden Lane, Willesden, that will provide 106 student flats alongside five commercial units.

The decision came despite opposition from those living in neighbouring Electric House and Willesden Green ward councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson.

Cllr Donnelly-Jackson said: “The height and design is not particularly in-keeping with what is a conservation area.

“It will not help the council reduce its housing waiting list and it’s on a particularly busy corner so I have serious concerns about how students could be dropped off.”

She added there will be issues with people placing online delivery orders and noted the impact on the nearby London Underground station at peak times.

And she supported the residents of Electric House, who had previously voiced their concerns to the council over loss of light.

“There is a worry that the communal garden at Electric House will be placed in shadow – rendering it useless – and it will impact on residents living at the back,” she said.

Simon Owen, representing the scheme’s agent, said the latest design is “based on what councillors and residents have said” in consultation.

He added it put forward a student project because there is a lack of student accommodation across London and this site is “not acceptable for a conventional scheme”.

Brent Council’s planning officers recommended that the committee approve the scheme, noting that the issues around sunlight loss and congestion were acceptable.

Cllr Elliot Chappell voted against the proposals over concerns around “the impact on neighbouring properties” and the greater need for family-sized accommodation and affordable housing.

Three councillors, including chairman Cllr James Denselow, abstained, and three councillors voted in favour of the project, which meant it passed.