I am writing in response to Marylyn Ashton’s letter concerning Councillor Ferry’s remarks as chairman of the planning committee (Your Views, January 13).

I do not believe that Cllr Ferry is suggesting that developers be guaranteed anything just because they are willing to invest in Harrow. Indeed he has defended the council’s rejection of the Dandara proposals next to Harrow-on-the-Hill station that Ms Ashton rallied against.

I believe what Cllr Ferry is suggesting is that if developers have followed the requirements of a robust detailed development framework, the “vision” that he is referring to, then there should be no reason why the development should be refused. However, this can only happen if the “vision” is properly co-ordinated, thoroughly tested and most importantly owned and trusted by residents and those involved in the decision making process, not least members of the planning committee.

Developers appreciate a rigorous, strong framework to work to, but this should not be overly cautions that will stifle innovation and progressive developments, which will enhance our centre. As a Harrow resident for more than 20 years, I have seen the slow decline of central Harrow and, like Cllr Ferry want to see investment come to Harrow. I take heart and am encouraged to see that the planning department is actively developing a forward looking strategic plan for Harrow through the efforts of Stephen Kelly and his colleagues which will result in the vision the Cllr Ferry refers to attract developers.

As a partner in a respected London architectural practice and as a member of the Design Review Panel for Brent, I know how such an approach can reap long-term benefits but the process can only succeed if the masterplan is right in the first place. Only by knowing what we want, understanding and owning it as residents and councillors will we then be able promote it to developers so that they can be more certain of our expectations.

Cllr Ferry is right to speak out.

Sanjiv M Gohil RIBA
CZWG Architects