Plans to redevelop a community library alongside new affordable homes were approved again after the application was brought back following a legal challenge.

Brent Council’s planning committee voted in favour of the changes to Preston Library, in Carlton Avenue East, Wembley.

This was the second time it was addressing the application, which seeks to build 12 flats in a block up to four storeys alongside a new library.

It was passed in August but, following a judicial review instigated by residents, was deemed unlawful.

Those opposed to the first set of plans continued to voice their objections as 67 people, as well as a representation from the South Kenton and Preston Park Residents’ Association (SKPPRA), responded negatively to a consultation on the proposals.

Michael Rushe, chairman of SKPPRA, questioned the difference between the two versions of the application and called for a “fair and legal assessment of the proposals”.

He was supported by Kenton ward councillor Michael Maurice, who suggested the report contained misrepresentations.

He criticised the scale and design of the proposed development, describing it as “out of character” with the area, and pointed to the fact that new residents could exacerbate an already strained parking situation.

“We are not against the library, we want the library, it is a much-loved and very well-used library,” he said. “But this is a total overdevelopment for the area”.

Cllr Daniel Kennelly, who represents Preston ward, spoke in a neutral capacity on the application and said the key thing is to resolve the issue at the site.

He said: “It’s time to draw a line under it one way or another and bring the community back together. All they want is a sustainable library.”

He praised the “idea and ambition” of providing 100 per cent affordable housing at the site but questioned the scale of the building and the impact it could have on neighbouring properties’ privacy.

The issue of the lease agreement for the library, which is yet to be signed, was also brought up as a concern.

Philip Bromberg, chairman of Preston Community Library, explained that it has an agreement in principle for 49 years at peppercorn rent and Cllr Krupesh Hirani, responsible for libraries at Brent Council, said he would push for this to remain the case.

Mr Bromberg said he supported the proposals, as he had in August, since they will ultimately improve the library.