Basement beneath Boris Johnson’s childhood home approved

Controversial plans for a million pound basement beneath the garden of Boris Johnson’s childhood home in Primrose Hill have been approved, despite opposition.

The scheme includes plans to install a private cinema and gym beneath the pink Victorian villa in Regent’s Park Road.

Broadcaster Mathew Wright and Mr Johnson’s father Stanley were among those who backed calls to block the scheme, previously rejected by Camden Council after residents raised fears it could cause structural damage to neighbouring properties.

But the government planning inspectorate David Cullingford dismissed these concerns and granted permission.

Linda Seward, an author who lives next door, said: “This is absolute madness and shows how the wishes of the local people are being sacrificed for the sake of greedy developers.

“The local residents have tried their best to stop this from happening. I am now very fearful for the sanity of the people living adjacent to the site.”

In a statement explaining his decision, Mr Cullingford said: “It is suggested that the alterations intended would be minor, so that the character and appearance of the host building would be maintained, the conservation area preserved and the amenity of neighbours protected.”