"Back off Boris" - that is the message from dozens of residents who claim the Mayor of London has over-stretched his powers by reviewing Wandsworth Council's decision to reject a six-storey development in Putney.

Developers British Land were turned down by the council after submitting a planning application for a flats and shops in Putney High Street close to the River Thames where Barclays Bank, Halfords, TKMaxx and Eddie Catz are located.

The 97-home development was rejected by the council in July on the grounds that it was too high to fit in with the surrounding area, pollution is already at a level that endangers health and the architectural quality was considered poor.

But Mr Johnson has chosen to use his powers to review the decision at a meeting expected to take place next month.

A spokesman for the Mayor of London's office said: "As London’s population continues to grow, the Mayor believes it is crucial we build the homes the city needs as quickly as possible.

"The Mayor wants to assess this development, which would increase housing supply in the town centre, and will consider all of the planning issues as well as addressing the concerns expressed by the borough and local residents before taking a decision on the planning application."

Wandsworth Times:

British Land's proposed 97-home development in Putney High Street. Picture: GRID Architects

The Mayor of London's powers allow him to override council planning committee decisions if he can prove the development would have a significant impact on the London Plan, affects more than one borough and he has sound planning reasons.

Keith Hawkins, of residents group Better Putney takes a different view.

He said: "We were very pleased that the council took care and time to carefully consider the plans put forward by British Land - and in the end deemed them simply not good enough for Putney.

"The site does need developing - but in a way that will not spoil the High Street and add to the already terrible air pollution by blocking the prevailing wind that helps to refresh the air.

"The council has rightly told the developers to try harder - and as Mayor, Boris should not be allowed to interfere in local decisions that locals have to live with."

The development would rise to seven stories in Felsham Road and include a basement level with space for 26 cars and a public square in Lacy Road.

Wandsworth Times:

Campaigners claim the development would worsen air pollution in the town centre

Councillor Jeremy Ambache, who is a member of the council's planning committee, said: "I do not think that there are grounds for the Mayor to intervene in this case - just because he does not like the decision taken by the council.

"This decision really does not adversely affect other boroughs; nor does it prevent Wandsworth from meeting its obligations under the Mayor’s London plan.

"The Mayor is interfering in a local issues that should be left to Wandsworth Council."

British Land did not respond to requests for comment. 

Got an opinion? Comment below, or email letters@wandsworthguardian.co.uk.