NEIGHBOURS fear a beautiful nature reserve will resemble a city skyline after approval was given for a 29-storey high development on its periphery.

Barnet Council planning committee approved plans to build 2,000 flats, a school and a community centre overlooking Welsh Harp reservoir, despite vociferous objection from the community.

The Site of Specific Scientific Interest, which straddles the boundary between Brent and Barnet, is home to a sailing club and many species of birds and other wildlife.

Labour Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow, Navin Shah, said: “This shocking decision by Barnet Council will obliterate the beautiful landscape, tranquillity and ecological values of a site which is supposed to be protected for its scientific interest.

“On every single key issue like the density, urban design, housing, community facilities and transport and traffic, the application is seriously flawed and does not comply with Barnet nor London Mayor’s planning policies. A 29-storey tower block may be fine for Manhattan, but spells total disaster for Welsh Harp.”

More than 700 people signed a petition in Brent against the proposals from Barratt Metropolitan LLP to build the development – which will include two pedestrian bridges reaching across the Welsh Harp – and Barnet Council received 340 letters of objection.

A cross-party campaign was launched in Brent when the proposals came to light and members are disappointed with the outcome, claiming serious concerns were not taken into consideration.

Welsh Harp ward councillor Roxanne Mashari, lead member for environment and neighbourhoods, said: “I am disappointed by the decision. None of the concerns, which are well-known and serious, were addressed. The officer gave a very positive-leaning presentation. There are so many unanswered questions around this and there was a range of speakers raising objections.”

The buildings will replace the West Hendon Estate, which was built in the 1960s, and work could start as early as October. It will be built in four phases and will contain 500 affordable homes.

Barnet Council deputy leader, councillor Daniel Thomas, said: “It has taken a number of years to get to this point and I am extremely pleased that the much needed transformation of this estate has moved a step closer to becoming a reality.

“A great deal of time and effort has gone into making Barnet’s regeneration schemes feasible in a very difficult economic climate and I’m delighted that this project will deliver much needed quality housing along with a new school and other community facilities in West Hendon, and contribute to enhancing the town centre here.”

The application must now be approved by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

Mr Shah added that he will be lobbying Mr Johnson to refuse permission for the development.