Plan for Block of Flats on Thornbury Road Approved
Go ahead given despite fears of 'voyeuristic view' into nearby homes
51 Thornbury Road. Picture: Hounslow Council
February 10, 2026
An Isleworth family home is to be demolished and replaced with a block of flats, despite concerns of a “voyeuristic view” into nearby homes.
The locally contentious plans were approved by Hounslow Council’s Planning Committee on Thursday (February 5), despite concerns raised by councillors and residents. The development will see a block of seven flats built on the site.
The site, at 51 Thornbury Road in Isleworth, had caused concern for some councillors and residents as a location for development. John, a local resident, spoke to the committee on behalf of others, urging the councillors to reject the plans.
He cited six reasons to vote against, such as the demolition of a family home, loss of outlook and light, and the potential for a “voyeuristic view” of other nearby homes, caused by the height and view into neighbours’ rooms. However, this harm was considered “limited” due to the benefits of new housing.
He also raised concerns about the limited space and access to the site for construction vehicles. This was a concern shared by a number of councillors on the committee.
Despite voting in favour of the plans, Cllr Tom Bruce, Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council, said the construction was a “genuine concern”, given the narrow points of entry and exit to the site.
The site is located behind 47 and 49 Thornbury Road, and is accessed via a 36-metre, narrow private driveway between 49 Thornbury Road and 22 Weston Gardens. The applicant reiterated that topographic surveys were taken to ensure safe access “to the millimetre”.
Planning officers accepted that a family home will be lost in favour of this development, however they outlined that two family-sized flats will be provided in this scheme. There will be three two-bedroom flats, two one-bedroom flats, and two studio flats.
The scheme targets an 80 per cent reduction in carbon emissions and a biodiversity net gain, despite the chopping down of 11 trees. The development will also be car-free.
Local resident John with Cllr Louki at the planning meeting. Picture: Hounslow Council
Cllr Tony Louki, who is not a member of the Planning Committee, had called the application in to be decided by councillors. He raised concerns about last minute changes which were made to the plans on the day of final submissions for letters of support or objections – something refuted by the planning department.
The applicant told the committee that they listened to concerns raised by residents, and altered the plans to take these concerns into account. This includes increasing the amenity space for residents, making sure flats have frosted windows, and merging plans for two buildings into one.
The plans were given the green light by the Planning Committee. Despite councillors having concerns, all voted in favour of the plans.
Philip James Lynch - Local Democracy Reporter