Newly elected Muswell Hill Lib Dem councillor Gail Engert has welcomed the decision by Haringey’s planning committee to refuse a controversial application to build an additional storey on the flats that form part of the Odeon cinema building in Muswell Hill.

Ms Engert, who raised her concerns on the issue during her successful by-election campaign, says that adding another level, including a bridge over the car park entrance with flats above, would have spoiled the appearance of a much-loved local landmark, with its classic silhouette.She has pledged to monitor closely any future planning application for the site.

Cllr Gail Engert comments:

“I am relieved that this application has not had the go ahead. This proposals was literally ‘over-the-top’ and would have ruined the look of the building, as well as piling yet more pressure on the parking and social infrastructure in Muswell Hill.

“I will be watching closely for any further plans that developers may have for the building.”