A massive new tower has been approved in West London despite over 2,500 people writing letters in protest.

The 20-storey block was approved by an independent planning inspector, even though it was rejected by Ealing Council last year.

All 144 homes in the 55 West Tower will be 'affordable,' according to the developer, with 94 going on sale for shared ownership and 50 available for London living rent.

The plans also include two shops at the bottom of the tower and a public area next to the building.

Southern Grove and Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing Association will build 55 West next to the West Ealing Crossrail station.

However, 2,627 objections were sent to Ealing Council with many arguing that the tower was far too tall for the area and that it would ruin the borough's skyline.

Residents also argued that the area was being overdeveloped and that it would damage the look of the area.

Ealing Council agreed, rejecting the developers application in 2020.

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In a letter explaining its decision, the council said the building would cause a "detrimental impact on the character and appearance of the surrounding area."

The council added that it was not convinced by the affordability of the planned homes.

However, a planning officer overturned the decision on October 29.

The officer said that the block was: "A tall building of exemplary design."

He added that: "The proposal would deliver 144 units of much-needed affordable housing in a tall building of exemplary design that would have no harmful impact on the character or appearance of the area.

"On that basis, it would optimise rather than maximise the use of the site.

"Moreover, it would provide reasonable living conditions for its occupiers, and have no detrimental impact on the living conditions of existing residents of the area."