Environmental campaigners have called for a rethink after "bulky, slab-like" flats were approved.

And it has emerged that the Ministry of Defence objected to the 20-storey buildings planned for the former Post Office site in College Road, Harrow, because the blocks could affect pilots' navigation systems.

The Campaign for a Better Harrow Environment has been active in voicing its objections to plans to develop the former Post Office site at College Road, Harrow.

After Harrow council’s planning committee approved the plans for 318 homes last week, the group said it believes the council needs to look at the proposals again.

Campaigner Irene Wears said: “We find many shortcomings in the planning application for the site at 51 College Road.

“Our main concerns are the bulky, slab-like appearance of its four blocks and its 20-storey height, which interferes with protected views.”

The Secretary of State had previously stated that in principle, a 19-storey building at the site should be approved “subject to world-class architectural design being achieved”.

Mrs Wears added: “In using his casting vote on Wednesday evening in favour of the development, the chairman remarked that Harrow could not afford world-class architecture.

“Probably not, but the solution is surely clear – reduce the height of the development.

“Harrow has already exceeded its cumulative London Plan housing target by more than 650 units - surely it’s time for a rethink on 51 College Road?”

The plans were approved last week subject to a number of conditions being met, including one that the Ministry of Defence drops its objection to the plans over fears it could affect pilot’s navigational tools.

Cllr Keith Ferry, who chaired the meeting on Wednesday night, said: “It’s nice to see that this site is finally being developed, after being idle for so long.

“We were impressed by the high quality of architecture, and are confident this will lead to good quality homes being built.

“This development will provide much-needed housing for local people, and is only the start of the Labour administration’s ambitious regeneration plans for Harrow.”