Benedict Cumberbatch among opponents of Dartmouth Park flats

Developer HGG has applied to Camden Council to demolish Lamorna, a two-storey, four-bedroom 1930s house in Dartmouth Park Road and replace it with a five storey block of flats.

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The Sherlock actor and his wife, Sophie Hunter, along with Dame Justine Thornton, wife of Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, are among many to have objected on the council's website.

They argue that the block is out of keeping with the area, too big for the site, and its six one, two and three-bedroom flats will put a strain on parking and traffic.

How the new block might look in Dartmouth Park, according to the planning design and access statement (Image: HGG) They warned it would "dwarf" houses on both Dartmouth Park Road and Chetwynd Road, overlooking and blocking sunlight to both gardens and windows.

The actor also warned it could set a precedent for "MEGA" developments.

Benedict Cumberbatch and wife Sophie Hunter are among objectors to the scheme in Dartmouth Park (Image: PA)

He added: "Could I now demolish my property and replace it with flats and not require the same extensive planning approval?

"Or worse, the properties that are located behind this proposal on Chetwynd Road could apply to be demolished with an even bigger property than this proposal being submitted to form a MEGA development."

Dame Justine Thornton with husband, energy minister, Ed Miliband (Image: PA)

Dame Thornton said she had no objection to the principle of redevelopment into flats, particularly given the need for more housing, but said the design was "too tall, too bulky, and too dense for its plot" in the wider Dartmouth Park conservation area.

She added that the Highgate Newtown residential development was an example of "thoughtful design" in harmony with neighbouring properties.

The Dartmouth Park Neighbourhood Forum also objected to the building, calling it "out of scale" and too high, particularly in relation to its neighbours.

Highgate councillors Anna Wright and Camron Aref-Adib backed opponents, especially over loss of light and privacy.

Cllr Wright said: "Local people are concerned about the height of the building in comparison to the neighbouring terrace, and I share their concerns.

"There is also a need for reassurance that the basement excavation will not compromise neighbouring properties."

They also urged planners to protect neighbours from dust, noise, and disruption during demolition and construction.

On the council website, HGG described the scheme as "an excellent opportunity to improve the economic, social, and environmental conditions of the area" and claimed the scheme was in accordance with housing policies as it provided new homes on a accessible brownfield site.

The firm added the development would improve the local townscape, and provide “much needed" two bedroom and family homes.

The planning application is currently awaiting a decision.