by Lisa Haseldine

A block of 24 flats will be built next to a park in Ealing despite complaints from over 500 residents.

Planning permission to build new flats next to Acton Park was granted by Ealing Council last week.

The apartments, a portion of which will be affordable housing, will also look onto Acton Central station and the accompanying railway line.

Documents submitted to the council on behalf of developer Westgreen Property Investment LLP reveal the tower block will be five storeys high and contain a mixture of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.

The decision was taken by the council to grant permission for the development to go ahead despite objections from 545 residents to the proposals.

Writing on Ealing Council's website, residents voiced their concerns that the planned tower block would encroach on Acton Park next door and prevent visitors from enjoying it properly.

One resident wrote: "This is a big deal – it robs us of a local safe haven, a quiet residential park that is much loved by the community. This development will tower over the station and trees, block light to the park and will overlook areas where our children play!!!"

Another resident said: "This 5 storey building is too close to the park. It will completely change the character of the park." A third resident wrote: "This area should be returned to the park and the community for nature. This area does not need a 5 storey residential building. 

"There's overdevelopment in Acton which is ruining the heritage of the area. The building works will cause disruption in an area already made inaccessible with the railway line and will increase pollution. I strongly object."

The building works are expected to take approximately half a year. It is not known when the work will begin. A spokesperson for Westgreen Property Investment LLP said: "Westgreen are pleased to be delivering this high quality, sustainable scheme which is expected to achieve an EPC A rating. 

"After significant consultation with major stakeholders and local residents, we worked through how we could improve the existing consent and ensure this new consent provided better results for locals. This included a significant commitment during the construction phase, with greater management of deliveries and limits on activity during school drop off, pick up and break time hours. 

"We want to thank all members of the local community that gave up their spare time to work with us on the changes, and remain open to discussions with locals and neighbours to build on much improved relationships since the start of the application process, which will continue well past the completion of the new building."

Ealing Council has been contacted for comment.