Liberal Democrat councillors in Fortis Green have thrown their weight behind local residents who are protesting against plans to build eight new three storey houses and twelve parking spaces on the land of 85-87 Woodside Avenue, N10. The land of the proposed development backs onto Lauradale Road and there is currently a single cottage and small office on the site.

Lib Dem Fortis Green councillor Matt Davies shares concerns of the residents who feel that the size of the development is unsuitable for the site and the area. Mr Davies says key problems centre around site accessibility, wildlife and environmental impact, traffic and parking, loss of amenity to surrounding residents and child safety issues – particularly with regard to Tetherdown School which is very near the site.

Cllr Davies comments:

“These proposals are completely inappropriate for this site and many residents have already written to the Planning Department to object – I would encourage other residents in the surrounding area to do the same.

“As this would be such a large scale development, I have asked the council to extend the consultation to a wider area around the site, as many residents may not yet be aware of it. I am keen to ensure local residents have an opportunity to voice their objections, so I have also asked the council to hold a consultation meeting so all local residents can view the plans and make comments.”

Councillor Lynne Featherstone, who represents nearby Muswell Hill, has also expressed her concern about the proposals:

“The site is not suitable for a development of this scale, which would stick out like a sore thumb. There are serious concerns around several aspects of the proposals, but one of the most serious is the potential overcrowding of this site and its impact on the safety of children and other pedestrians in and around the school.”