A group of residents from Beatty Road in Stanmore have raised objections to a proposed Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) that would see a large part of their local green space turned into a flood basin.
The plan, part of the wider “Action for Silk Stream” project led by Harrow Council, aims to tackle surface water flooding across the borough. However, residents say the proposal is unfair and would negatively impact a well-loved area that has no history of flooding.
If approved, the scheme would involve replacing almost half of the green space with a 2-metre-deep basin and a visible stream running through the area. Residents argue that this would permanently alter the character of the green, which is currently used by children, families, and dog walkers.
In a statement sent to Harrow Online, the group said: “We urgently seek your support in publicising our objections to this scheme, which, if approved, would replace half of the green with a 2-metre deep flood basin and an open water stream running through it. This green is a vital communal space where children play safely, families enjoy picnics, and residents walk their dogs and gather for informal games of football and cricket. It is the heart of our neighbourhood.”
One of the major concerns raised is around health and safety. Residents say the stream could attract insects and rodents, and worry that stagnant water may cause unpleasant smells and health issues.
They also questioned the choice of location. “Beatty Road itself has never experienced flooding,” the group said. “Redirecting flood mitigation efforts to an area that hasn’t demonstrated a flooding issue not only wastes resources but punishes a community that does not contribute to the problem.”
Safety, property value, and wellbeing have also been highlighted as issues. Residents say the presence of a 2-metre-deep water basin near family homes could be dangerous for young children and have an impact on mental health and the local environment.
Sachin Pandey, a local resident, told Harrow Online: “This space means a lot to our community—it’s where kids play, families gather, and dogs run freely. We’re really concerned about the impact the proposed SuDS stream will have, especially in terms of safety, hygiene, and loss of a cherished green space.”
The council said the area has been identified as being at high risk of surface level flooding and stressed that community feedback is still being collected.
In a statement, a council spokesperson said: “We have had two consultations to engage with local residents on this proposal. Beatty Road and the surrounding area is identified as being at high risk of surface level flooding which is why we are proposing this option. The option looks at keeping the natural landscape, enhancing it and ensuring flood defences are in place to help during heavy rainfall.
“Cars have been seen regularly parking on the green, so as part of the plans, we propose a small area for grass parking. This will allow people to park without damaging the open space or endangering others using it. We understand people may have concerns which is why these proposals are being consulted on before a final decision is made.”
Residents have distributed leaflets throughout the street, encouraging others to respond to the council’s online survey. They claim that every person they have spoken to is opposed to the proposal.
The consultation remains open and residents are urging others to submit their views before the deadline.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
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