The Duke of Northumberland is set to get the go-ahead for 80 new homes at his Syon House London estate on allotment land that has been nurtured by gardeners for more than a century.
The duke, 64, has received the backing of Hounslow council’s planning offficers who have recommended the proposed development on a three-acre site in the grounds of the Grade 1-listed residence in Isleworth is given the go-ahead by councillors.
The proposal has been opposed by more than 900, including allotment holders in what has been dubbed a latter-day “peasants’ revolt”. The final decision on the scheme is due to be made at a meeting of the council’s planning committee next Thursday.
Stephen Hurton, of the Park Road Allotments Association, said: “We’re all disappointed. We’re hopeful that the committee will reject the officers’ findings.”
It is the duke’s second attempt to win permission for new homes, with revenues to pay for repairs to the Robert Adam-designed seat which has been in the family for more than 400 years.
Local councillor Salman Shaheen said: “If the duke is allowed to bulldoze this green jewel in the heart of Isleworth then it will be gone forever. I urge my fellow councillors on the planning committee to throw out the application and vote to protect this vital piece of local open space.”
Allotment holders are furious that the space is being slashed by two-thirds “at a time of allotment waiting lists lengthening and demand for plots growing”.
Some have said they feel “steamrollered” by the 12th duke, below, whose title was created in 1766 by George III.
The family’s wealth is estimated at £300 million in this year’s Sunday Times Rich List.
Northumberland Estates said: “We have been working with the council to achieve a scheme for the site which will deliver affordable rented houses and accommodation for nurses and health care workers at West Middlesex Hospital.
“All existing allotment holders on the Park Road site have been offered a new plot.”
