The developers of a controversial plan to build 1,800 new homes and “transform” the O2 Centre have said this is a “start of a journey”.

Conditional approval was given for the development behind the Finchley Road shopping centre by seven votes to three on Thursday night (March 30).

Shouts of “shame” could be heard from the public gallery, after objection from some residents and neighbourhood groups.

Former council leader Keith Moffitt, who sits as the co-chair of the West Hampstead Neighbourhood Development Forum, previously said that new housing is needed in the area but explained the proposed height and density of the sites were “excessive and inappropriate”.

Ham & High: The O2 centre and a car park currently take up part of the redevelopment siteThe O2 centre and a car park currently take up part of the redevelopment site (Image: Julia Gregory)

He said: “In terms of physical appearance of it, this site is by five conservation areas, so you’re actually building a dense high-rise site in the middle of five conservation areas.

“We’re not against the development of this site. We think it is a waste for a site like this to be used as a service car park.”

Nevertheless, developers Landsec seem to be optimistic that the approval of the plans is a part of an important transformation.

Tim Trillo, development director at Landsec, said: “We’re delighted to see the committee resolve to grant planning permission for the Masterplan as we know the site will deliver so much more for this area.

“The decision will transform a grey car park and a shopping centre at risk of decline, into a high-quality, green, and inclusive place for the whole community.

“As a long-term investor in Camden, we want to support a thriving community for many years to come and are excited to start bringing our vision to life.

“This decision represents the start of that journey - we look forward to continuing to work with residents, local businesses, our commercial and community partners, and Camden Council to realise these plans.”

Ham & High: A picture outside the O2 Centre in Finchley RoadA picture outside the O2 Centre in Finchley Road (Image: Julia Gregory)

Plans for the first phase of the development were approved for 608 new homes, new commercial space and a community garden on the Sainsbury’s car park.

An outline of later phases which includes the future of the O2 Centre and the potential development of a NHS health centre, shops and “community green” open space, were also given consent.

Landsec says the development will provide a boost to the local economy with 1,000 new jobs and generating £49 million.

It has also committed a £10 million financial contribution to unlock step-free access at West Hampstead tube station.

There will be a £3 million contribution towards the open space improvements across the borough, including Billy Fury Way and Granny Dripping Steps, and a £1.5 million contribution to improvements on Finchley Road.