There are fears that plans to replace a former lounge with a new six-storey hotel and pub will “stick out like a sore thumb”.

Applications were submitted in October to redevelop the former Black Leaf Lounge in The Hyde, Edgware Road, between Hendon, Colindale and Kingsbury, after the site was put for sale in 2021.

Novaplace Properties have proposed to redevelop 163-165 Edgware Road into a ground plus five-storey high building for an apart-hotel of 152 units.

The application says it will have associated leisure facilities, public house, co-working space and associated car parking – including two accessible spaces, cycle parking, landscaping and servicing.

In the design and access statement, it is noted the new public house mentioned in the proposal will be accessible to the local community.

Architect SPPARC said on behalf of their client: “The ambition for the site is to produce an exceptional scheme which will be a recognisable and welcome high-quality addition to the varied character of the immediate area.”

The design and access statement added: “Currently the existing ineffective, derelict buildings offer little benefit to the area. The proposal also includes public realm improvements, creating an active frontage at the ground floor facing Edgware Road and Springfield Mount.”

Harrow Times: The Black Leaf before its closureThe Black Leaf before its closure (Image: Street View)

Following consultations earlier in the year, some changes have been made in the pre-application process, such as reducing the height from eight stories to six and enhancing the façade appearance.

Novaplace Properties promises that the building will “age with dignity for future generations”.

Despite the applicant’s claims of the hotel being beneficial to the community, at least 13 objectors have submitted complaints to Brent Council regarding the proposal.

One person wrote that the design is “not keeping with the surrounding properties” and stated it would “stand out like a sore thumb”.

Another person claimed that the height would “dominate” the surrounding low-scale housing in the area, and one objector said it would “loom over the existing structures” and would be “visually jarring for residents and passers-by”.

The council has encouraged anyone wishing to make a comment to submit their thoughts by December 7 by using the Brent Council online planning portal or emailing planning.comments@brent.gov.uk – referencing the application number 23/3365, their name and postal address.

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