Camden Council’s planning officers are recommending approval for the five-storey scheme, which would replace a two-storey building known as Lamorna.
Developer HGG London aims to build a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, each with private outdoor space.
Neighbours including Benedict Cumberbatch and his wife Sophie Turner have raised strong objections with the council. The couple wrote: “The approval of this planning would also set a precedent for the area. For example, could I now demolish my property and replace it with flats and not require the same extensive planning approval?
“Or worse, the properties that are located behind this proposal on Chetwynd Road could apply to be demolished with an even bigger property that this proposal being submitted to form a MEGA development.”
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The actor described the design as “out of keeping with the architectural style of the area” and said it will “disrupt the aesthetic of the street”.
He also warned: “The daily life of the existing residents will be impacted because of the additional services now required to serve this property.”
Ed Miliband’s wife, High Court judge Justine Thornton, has also objected. While supportive of new housing in principle, she raised concerns about the scale of the development, adding that she had “no objection to the principle of redevelopment into flats, particularly in the context of the need of more housing”.
She contrasted the plans with the nearby Highgate Newtown development, which she described as “a brilliant example of thoughtful design in harmony with neighbouring properties”.
Dame Justine said: “This application presents another opportunity for the council to demonstrate its commitment to the provision of sympathetically designed housing by acknowledging the benefit of redevelopment whilst rejecting this particular design.”
The scheme was reduced during the planning process from six storeys and six flats to five storeys and five homes. Despite this, the majority of public feedback has been negative, with Camden Council receiving 205 objections and only three letters of support.
Residents have cited concerns about privacy, noise, increased demand on local services, and the impact on the conservation area. Some have also raised fears about traffic and the visual effect on the neighbourhood.
A report by BPS Chartered Surveyors for the council estimated the flats would be worth more than £5 million in total, with individual units priced between £700,000 and £1.4 million. HGG London argues the scheme meets planning goals.
The developer said: “The Dartmouth Park project would deliver new housing on a brownfield site in an accessible location in line with national and local planning policy objectives.”
The council’s decision is expected following its planning meeting on Thursday (January 15).
