Save our Edgware campaign postponed due to weather

Campaigners from the ‘Save Our Edgware’ group were set to gather at Stonegrove Park yesterday (September 22) to voice their concerns about a proposed redevelopment plan for thousands of new homes in Edgware town centre.

The plan was jointly submitted by Ballymore and Transport for London (TfL) and seeks approval from Barnet Council for the construction of 3,365 homes next to Edgware Station. This includes 1,150 affordable homes and 463 student flats, as well as the redevelopment of Broadwalk Shopping Centre and a new bus station and garage.

However, due to the heavy rain and risk of lightning, the protest was put on hold.

The group said: “Due to the risk of lightning, we've had to postpone today's (September 22) Save Our Edgware rally.

“While we were prepared to weather the rain, safety comes first. We'll announce the rescheduled date as soon as possible.

“Please stay tuned for updates.”

A 'Save Our Edgware' campaign sign (Image: LDRS)

The tallest building within the development is proposed to be 29 storeys high and will be located at the heart of the scheme, above a new “town square”.

A total of 13 blocks are proposed that will be 20 storeys or taller, with these set to be located at the northern edge and centre of the site.

A further seven blocks would be between ten and 19 storeys tall, with heights coming down to between five and nine storeys towards the southern boundary, near existing homes.

The plans have proved controversial in Edgware ever since they were first revealed over a year ago.

The campaign group says the demolition of Edgware bus station would increase traffic time, and the demolition of the Broadwalk Mall would threaten the rail sector in the area and make it harder for the elderly to do their shopping.

Alongside housing, Ballymore says its plans include a “significant increase in green space” for the town centre, including a new 4.7-acre nature park around the area of Deans Brook.

The new town centre will “double the existing volume of commercial space” adding a cinema, office space and businesses, it adds.

The whole development is expected to be completed by 2036, with the first phase, subject to consent, including around 1,000 new homes, the bus station and garage, alongside retail and leisure offerings.

A Ballymore spokesperson said: “Over the last few years, we have consulted key stakeholders and met more than 3,300 members of the local community.

“These conversations have fundamentally shaped our scheme, and we look forward to continuing these discussions as we progress through the planning process.”