A “peasants revolt” planning battle over a proposal from the Duke of Northumberland to build flats on a west London allotment site has ended in a victory for campaigners battling to preserve the green space.
Planning inspector John Longmuir last night threw out an appeal from the peer ruling that the scheme at Park Road Allotments in Isleworth would harm local open spaces, protected heritage buildings.
The Duke and his son Earl Percy planned to build 80 flats on the three acre site, which has been used as allotments since 1917, leaving only around a quarter of it available for cultivation.
The aristocrat argued that profits from the development were desperately needed to fund repairs to his Grade I listed London residence Syon House and would provide affordable housing for key workers.
But the plans were unanimously rejected by Hounslow council’s planning committee in October 2021 before the Duke took the decision to appeal.
In his ruling the inspector said the the reduction in the size and nmumber of plots “would be inadequate for the needs of most allotment holders.”
Salman Shaheen, councillor for Isleworth and cabinet Member for Public Spaces on Hounslow Council, said: “Today’s decision preserves allotments that have been worked and loved by the people of Isleworth for over a century and will safeguard our little patch of paradise for generations to come.
“Demand for allotments has only surged in the wake of the pandemic. And this planning inquiry has proven that we need more green space to grow food, not less. “
Stephen Hurton, chair of Park Road Allotment Association, said: “These allotments have brought such joy to plot holders. They have been a place of sanctuary and community where people, young and old, can come together to grow food and be amongst nature.
“We hope that we can work together with Northumberland Estates to maintain the site as allotments.”
Sue Casey, chair of the Isleworth Society, said: “The Inspector’s decision to turn down the appeal by Northumberland Estates is so significant for the Isleworth community. Important local open space is secured; heritage is protected and wildlife preserved. The Isleworth Society is delighted with this outcome - of great benefit to present as well as to future generations.”
Colin Barnes, planning director of the family’s business Northumberland Estates, said: “We are disappointed that this scheme which would have provided much-need affordable housing while retaining green space and allotments has not been approved. We will take some time to consider our options.”
It is the Duke’s second attempt to get the green light for a development at the allotments. In 2018 he lost an appeal on a previous proposal for 127 flats and houses.
