A North London nursery school stands accused of attempting a “land-grab” over plans to erect a screen on the perimeter fence of a nearby green space. Local residents argue the proposal, intended to give the nursery privacy, would instead “block any view” of the open space and “completely destroy” the character of the area.
College Green Preservation Society has launched a petition, signed by around 80 residents, calling on Brent Council to stop College Green Nursery School in Willesden from “erecting a screen, living wall or any structure on the perimeter fence of College Green” – a patch of open space at the top of College Road. It is understood that a planning application has not yet been submitted.
Petition claims blocked views and safety hazard
The petition asserts that any screen would “block any view of the open space” that residents have enjoyed for the last 100 years and “completely destroy the pleasant character of the area”. The preservation group has accused the nursery of a “betrayal of the trust and hope” built up over decades.
Beyond obstructing views, College Green Preservation Society – which has protected College Green since its founding in 1988 – claims a screen would also create “a major road safety hazard” at a busy junction nearby.
Preservation society chair speaks out
James Hogan, petitioner and Chair of College Green Preservation Society, said: “The open space is used by the Scouts and the nursery and has never been part of the nursery's property. It is an important part of the community and should not be hidden from view by any screen, living wall or any other structure.”
Hogan added: “College Green Nursery School has already erected an additional fence across the open field, which is having a negative effect on Scout activities. The open field is not and never has been part of the nursery school property. If the nursery school wants to screen their property that is up to them but they have no right to screen the open field, which does not belong to them and is an open space used by the Scouts, enjoyed by the local residents and is a vital aspect of the character of the area.”
Legal covenant and next steps
The society also claims the proposal contravenes a protective covenant granted by All Souls' College, Oxford in 1913, which is part of the deeds of surrounding houses. This covenant legally protects householders' rights, including that the land cannot be used for any purpose that may cause them nuisance, damage, or grievance, or depreciate property values.
College Green Nursery School was approached for comment but did not respond before publication. The petition will be presented to Brent Council's Cabinet at a meeting on September 7, where the relevant cabinet member will provide a response.
