A block of flats have been approved tonight in a leafy part of the borough despite fervent opposition.

Furious residents were dealt a blow as they saw a plan to build four blocks approved on Bush Hill, opposite Bush Hill Park golf course.

A petition of more than 100 signatures and the received criticism from councillors and the Enfield Society.

Roy Conway, who spoke on behalf of opposition to the plans said: “The creation of large blocks of flats is completely alien to the area.”

The site will see a series of 2-4 bed flats including an underground car park of 26 spaces.

There is also protection on an old plane tree which is within the site.

Leader of the opposition Cllr Terry Neville also vouched for those against the plans: “The spacing on this development will be quite striking, it is inappropriate.

“It will be a totally different street scene. Trees will be lost in the area. I think they are pretty ugly. There has been selected quoting policy.

A spokesman of Phase 2, defended the housing group’s application and sai: “The character of the site will be maintained with all trees kept. The design of the development will maintain the sites woodland character. It is seeking to provide the maximum level of affordable housing.”

Councillors on the planning committee debated the application and those in support believed that flats are needed in the area to cope with housing pressures.

Bryan Williams, 79, who has lived in Bush Hill for more than three decades, told the Enfield Independent the area will now be changed “forever”.

He said: “They are going to ruin the road and take the edge off of it, they could’ve been of Georgian houses. It is a terrible decision for people here.”

Concerns were also raised about the speed of cars travelling on the road as the flats will be situated on a tight bend.

Councillors said they will look into changing the speed limit on the road.