To Highgate, where the long running saga of the development of mews houses in Townsend Yard, just off Highgate High Street, continues.

There seems to be something of a war of attrition going on between the developer, the London Fire Brigade and Haringey planning and building control, and it is one that Haringey’s planners and building control seem at risk of losing.

There have been continued breaches of construction site rules, with a litany of problems including working outside agreed hours, blocking access to Townsend Yard and holding up traffic while oversized lorries unload or attempt to manoeuvre.

Finally, in early December, the developer was served with a Breach of Condition Notice by Haringey after a string of complaints from the Highgate Society and users of the road. Mead, the builder was given until January 5 to comply with the Construction Management Plan.

Ham & High: Jeska Harrington Gould says there have been breaches of construction on the Townsend Yard developmentJeska Harrington Gould says there have been breaches of construction on the Townsend Yard development (Image: Highgate Society)

Second, and more importantly in the long term, there is still no sign of revised plans that will give London Fire Brigade access to Shepherd’s Cottage.

In December 2021, the fire brigade submitted a report to Haringey pointing out that they require access for their fire tenders via Townsend Yard to Shepherd’s Cottage (36a Highgate High Street). In Summer 2022 the builder indicated to the property owner, Jane Hill, that some access would be provided – however despite many approaches to Haringey Council and continued campaigning by the Highgate Society and other local people, there has been no confirmation of this, or revised plans submitted. Even a visit by cabinet member for planning Cllr Dana Carlin has produced no action.

This is an intolerable situation for the homeowner as she fears for her own safety and that of the historic listed cottage.

An underlying problem with this proposed development is that the developer, Townsend Yard Ltd, represented by its director Sean Meadows, has refused throughout to speak to the community.

We think it would help Haringey planners to make a rule that applications like this one will only be considered after there has been community consultation.

We continue with our campaign. Please sign our petition – there is a link on our website: highgatesociety.com.

Jeska Harrington Gould is a member of the Highgate Society.