Plans for a new 129-room hotel on the site of a Harrow car park and dozens of town centre flats will be discussed by the council’s planning committee later today(Wednesday, March 17).

Councillors will assess a scheme in Vaughan Road Car Park, which seeks to provide accommodation at an ‘aparthotel’ – a hotel with some ‘apartment style’ rooms catering for longer stays – alongside a new restaurant.

The proposed development, which would be up to 12 storeys high, has been criticised by members of the West Harrow Community Forum (WHCF), which argued it would not be in keeping with the character of the surrounding area.

WHCF protested the project by flying a blimp at the proposed height of the development in December 2020 to highlight the contrast with the neighbouring low-rise Edwardian housing.

It also said approval could “set a dangerous precedent” by allowing tall developments outside specific opportunity zones.

Ali Ravanshad, founder of developer Dandi Living, said he wants to “put Harrow on the map” and is committed to a scheme that will “make a difference” in the area.

However, Harrow Council officers recommended the planning committee refuse permission for this scheme on the basis it has an “inappropriate design” with a “height, bulk, scale and mass” that would have a “detrimental impact” on the surrounding area.

The committee will also review plans for a scheme at the site of Halfords, in Sheepcote Road, that would provide 149 new one-bed flats – all of which have been deemed affordable – across two buildings up to nine storeys high.

According to a council report on the application, which recommended the committee approve it, 64 neighbouring properties have opposed the plans, while 29 have outlined their support.

There were come concerns expressed around a loss of light and privacy for nearby homes, though council officers noted any impact would be “acceptable” in planning terms.

They also pointed out there could be a reduction in traffic and pollution as the development would be car-free and would replace an existing car park.

Officers added the loss of parking spaces is not protected since they currently serve Halfords as opposed to the wider public.

Those in favour of the scheme were impressed by the amount of affordable housing on offer, which they said would appeal to first-time buyers and help more Harrow residents get on the housing ladder.

The planning committee meeting will be available to stream on the council’s website at 6.30pm.