BARNET Council has today granted final planning permission for the �4.5billion development scheme which will transform the area around Brent Cross shopping centre.

The Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration scheme will create a new town centre bringing 27,000 jobs and 7,500 homes and includes almost �1billion of community and infrastructure investment.

The scheme has not proved popular among residents and traders who have formed a coalition against the development together with a group of cross-party politicians. They claim the development is too high density and will put too much pressure on the area.

After a resolution in November to grant planning consent, the council has now granted full consent for the scheme following the signing of a Section 106 agreement, which sets out the community infrastructure and benefits the scheme will bring.

Jonathan Joseph for the Brent Cross Cricklewood Development Partners said: “The Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration will bring unprecedented investment into Barnet and North West London at a time when this is much needed, creating 27,000 new jobs, 7,500 homes, improved public transport, exceptional green and public spaces and brand new community, health and school facilities.

“Now that we have secured planning approval we can start to address key conditions of the Section 106 Agreement in addition to other detailed work necessary to facilitate a start on site in around four years time. A vital part of our work moving forward will be engagement with local people and the wider community to ensure that everyone is fully involved with and informed of our plans.”

For reaction to the decision see next week’s Ham&High.