GRAND plans to transform Hayes and West Drayton into the economic hub of the borough have met with a mixed response.

The Local Development Framework is a long-term plan for the borough which proposes thousands of new homes and the creation of legions of jobs.

The whole of the south of the borough has been designated a Heathrow Opportunity Area, with swathes of Hayes Town earmarked for office blocks and hotels to accommodate business and the foreign visitors that come to the borough every year.

It is hoped jobs and increased training opportunities created for local people will redress the inequality between the north and south of the borough.

The prospect of Crossrail coupled with existing transport networks in Hayes Town is being viewed as 'a catalyst for growth and regeneration', by attracting investors and employers.

Public consultation for the plans comes to an end on Friday.

But according to Hayes and Harlington Labour MP John McDonnell (pictured), the process has been secretive, and residents are largely none the wiser about the large-scale plans being drawn up under their noses. He said: "The council is changing the planning rules for the area in a way which will dramatically impact on our community and yet nobody seems to know about this.

"I am extremely worried that this significant change, which could allow the wholesale redevelopment of residential areas with offices and hotels, is being slipped through by the back door.

"It is the typical secretive behaviour of this council." David Brough, chairman of the Hayes Town Partnership, said although the plans would be looked upon favourably in principle, caution was necessary at this early stage.

"I welcome the recognition of Hayes as a key local centre and the enormous potential for regeneration presented by Crossrail.

"I applaud the plans to provide more jobs and more homes in the south of the borough, but I need to know more about how local people are going to get their fair share, and how all the support services are to be provided.

"I am not sure at this stage how it all fits together, and the impact there will be on Hayes Town.

"What is important is to make sure that the planners are not trying to squeeze a quart into a pint pot."