A £7m extension for Barnet Spires has been approved despite fears it will bring more rats to the area.

Plans to transform the shopping centre, in High Road, by building new restaurants and shops, were approved by councillors during Monday night’s planning committee.

The 90,000 square ft project will create 37 new shops in the Spires.

But people voiced their objections as they say the new restaurants will attract rats as more rubbish wil be dumped on the service road. 

One comment, on the council's planning agenda, read: “I sleep in the back of my home which backs directly onto where the proposed units are and would find the increased noise from restaurants disturbing.

“There would be extra deliveries during the day and staff noises all day and late at night, where on earth do you think all these staff and people will park? The surrounding roads could not cope for sure.

"The proposed change of use to these units, would result in an unacceptable loss of privacy to me, I'm really not prepared to let this happen and along with our neighbours who are in agreement we will challenge this proposal at every step. It really cannot go ahead.”

Hunter Real Estate Investment Managers were given the contract to expand for the Spires last year.

A public exhibition took place in December 2015, allowing residents the chance to consult with the developers over the plans.

Andrew Moffat, fund manager at Hunter said they were delighted the committee voted to grant planning permission for new restaurant and shopping space .

Mr Moffat said: “The centre plays an important role within the local community and the addition of a well-known international fashion operator, alongside other exciting brand names, will boost Barnet town centre. We are looking forward to continuing to work closely with the Council and community, during the construction of the scheme.”

What do you think of the plans? Email bethan.marsh@london.newsquest.co.uk to share your views.