Oaks Battle - It's Over

Controversial application won't be 'called in '

The government won't be intervening in the controversial Oaks planning decision - clearing the path for work to start.

Last October, Acton Regeneration Company (ARC) were given permission to build 142 homes (nine storey building) a multi-storey car park and new retail space in the town centre.

Despite local opposition, London Mayor, Boris Johnson, announced he would not step in.

Now the Department for Communities and Local Government has said it can't get involved - leaving the procedure back in the hands of Ealing Council.

Planning Secretary, Nick Boles has written to the Ealing Central and Acton MP, Angie Bray, explaining the decision.

He said the call-in policy makes it clear that the power to call-in a case can be used only very selectively:

'' In this case it was concluded that the issues did not meet the call-in criteria and that intervention at Government level would not be justified.''

Angie Bray said:

'' It is obviously very disappointing that we were unable to persuade the ministers to review the planning decision taken by Ealing council on the Oaks development. 

''I must say, it is very frustrating given how unpopular  this decision was with those most affected by it.  I have huge sympathy with the campaigners who worked so hard.  I have tried to leave no stone unturned to give them a chance to be heard, and I would still be happy to help if any other avenues can be identified. But we remain, sadly, as we were -  and that is stuck with a planning decision rail-roaded though by Ealing’s Labour-led Council, and it is a great shame.''

A spokesperson from ARC has sent this comment today (11th March) :

'' Acton Regeneration Company is delighted that the planning permission can now be issued and work started later this year on what will be a vibrant and exciting development for Acton”. 

11th March 2014