Two planning applications on neighbouring sites in Mays Lane, Barnet, reflect the continuing pressure for redevelopment on green belt land in the Dollis Valley.

A controversial proposal to place residential caravans on what is currently a paddock for grazing horses – see above – is now to be considered by a planning inspector at a public inquiry.

An application affecting an adjoining Mays Lane site has been submitted to Barnet Council by the Centre for Islamic Enlightening which is seeking permission to enlarge its 1,000-seat meeting hall.

Both proposals have prompted objections on the grounds that they would harm the green belt, threaten wildlife, and increase traffic congestion in Mays Lane.

There were over 1,000 objections to the application to site travellers’ caravans on the two-acre paddock which is said to be part of a wildlife corridor which extends from Arkley through the Dollis Valley and on to Totteridge Common.

Permission was refused by the council last December and the landowner Patrick Casey appealed against the decision. A government inspector will now hold a public hearing.

In its application the Centre for Islamic Enlightening proposes to add a first floor by raising the height of the eaves, whilst maintaining the existing height of the building and the provision of side extensions – see image above of the enlarged building.

A planning statement prepared by real estate agency Savills says the aim of the redevelopment of the centre is to “enhance the existing community facility, in order to provide separate spaces for men and women”; to improve the centre’s facilities; and to improve the existing areas of hardstanding which currently provides 160 car parking spaces.

Pre-application discussions with planning officers and neighbouring residents were said to have informed the overall design of the scheme and would “ensure the protection of the green belt”.

In contrast to Savills’ planning statement, the council’s website indicates there have been over 70 objections.

Residents in the neighbourhood and surrounding roads question why the existing building – which was previously a Brethren Gospel Hall – needs to be enlarged as it already has space for 1,000 people.

They argue that enlarging the centre should be rejected because there is a lack of infrastructure; there is no pavement outside; and Mays Lane is already dangerous for pedestrians and is too narrow for parking beside the road.

Objectors suggest that since the meeting house became an Islamic centre there has been greater use of the public address system with the flying of flags and fireworks during certain events.

Dan Tomlinson, the newly elected MP for Chipping Barnet, says he has written to the council to ensure that residents' concerns are acknowledged.

"It is important that the users of the building are considerate neighbours when it comes to late night noise and events. I have also asked that the impact on traffic and parking is taken into account."

In advance of a decision being taken, Mr Tomlinson has requested a meeting with planning officers to discuss these issues in more detail.

In remaining neutral about the application, the Barnet Society says that while it can see the merit of a large religious community facility of this kind being situated on the verge of Chipping Barnet, the number of cars arriving and departing from what would become a 174-place car park, would have a considerable impact on Mays Lane.

“Conditions must be set regarding frequency and timing of events, amplified music, vehicle movements and outdoor activities.

“These are particularly important since we understand that some neighbours are concerned about noise and nuisance.”

When the Brethren first applied to build a place of worship on the Mays Lane site in 1987, outline permission was refused because of its position with the green belt, but a subsequent application for a single-story meeting room was approved in 1994.

The Brethren sold the meeting room to the Centre for Islamic Enlightening in October of last year for what estate agents said was an amount in excess of the suggested price of £4 million.

The aim of the centre – as set out on the Charity Commission’s website – is to promote the advancement of the Islamic religion and to stage religious activities for children, young people, and the elderly.

With its car park and lawns, the site extends to 3.2 acres. The adjoining 1.97 acres of land, which was also sold by the Brethren, is now the subject of a public inquiry to hear an appeal against Barnet Council’s refusal to allow its use as a site for two caravans for residential use, together with hardstanding and adjoining day rooms.