The Homebase DIY store on Manor Road finally closed this week, clearing the way for a £250 million 'urban village'.

The description has received short shrift from residents, community groups and council leaders, who object to what will be a collection of buildings up to 11 storeys tall.

They argue that the scheme, which includes plans for 453 apartments, amounts to an over-development in a location that cannot cope with the extra population and traffic.

A controversial planning application for the site is expected to get approval from the London mayor shortly, despite opposition from residents and Richmond Council.

Attempts to block the scheme, which is on a site close to North Sheen rail station, by getting the government to 'call in' the proposal have failed.

The Kew Society has been in the vanguard of efforts to challenge the scheme. They have complained about the height of the apartment blocks and their design, saying they are far from being of high quality and beautiful.

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They also argue that the roads, public transport and rail station will be unable to cope, particularly when the scheme is considered in conjunction with other developments planned in the area, such as the Stag Brewery and hundreds of flats planned for the Kew Retail Park.

Developer Avanton says the so-called urban villages will create 453 apartments and penthouses, of which 173 homes will be affordable. The scheme will also build a linear pocket-park, retail, community and office uses, and landscaping, public and private open spaces.

Initially, construction was due to begin in the summer of 2021. It is understood the building work is likely to take 30 months.