The Duke of Northumberland has applied to build nearly 130 homes on allotments opposite Syon Park , as a petition opposing the plans approaches 900 signatures.
Syon Park's owner Ralph Percy wants to build 119 flats and eight houses on Park Road Allotments, across the road from his estate in Isleworth .
Allotment holders have been offered new plots within the park, but they are fighting the development, and an online petition has now been signed 871 times.
Northumberland Estates submitted its application to Hounslow Council on February 16 to build 127 homes at the allotment site, rising to four storeys, and create basement car parking.
It has also applied to create new allotments close to Lion Gate in the north-west of the park, where it says all existing holders have been offered the chance to move.
Northumberland Estates claims to have consulted widely about its plans, which it says were supported by about half of those providing feedback following a public exhibition.
It says the proposals have been amended in response to public feedback, with changes including the removal of some windows to reduce overlooking for neighbouring properties.
Northumberland Estates says the rental income from the new homes is needed to pay for the upkeep of the Grade I-listed 16th century Syon House and its grounds.
But gardeners opposing the move are concerned about the impact on wildlife if the land, which has been used as allotments for at least a century, is built upon.
The Isleworth Society successfully applied for the allotment site to be listed as an Asset of Community Value , but as the Duke does not plan to sell the land it is understood that should not affect the development plans.
