A DECISION to allow a developer to build on top of flats without telling the owners has been upheld.

Owners of flats in Ridgeway Court in Chingford spoke out when they learned plans to build on top of the three-storey block had been approved without their knowledge.

They also said an error had been made on the application form by the applicant’s agent, CG Architects, which gave incorrect information about ownership of the block.

Freeholder Southern Terrority were then forced to submit an application to build a fourth storey, incorporating two self-contained, one-bedroom flats, and consult residents.

The Council’s planning committee has now approved the latest plans, despite objections from flat owners in the block who expressed concerns about the impact and appearance of the development.

But councillors approved the scheme on Monday, following advice from council officers who argued that the effect on residents of the development would be minimal.

Committee members stressed there should be no building work at weekends to help minimise disruption.