BARNET Council has refused to extend the consultation period for a planning proposal, amid fears that residents will miss the chance to object.

Concerns have been expressed that people living near a proposed development in Oakleigh Park will not be able to express their views because the consultation period is taking place while many are away on holiday.

The development would involve the demolition of a detached house in Oakleigh Park North and the construction of a block of five apartments.

Similar applications prompted a large number of objections on the grounds the application was out of keeping with the area.

Oakleigh Park North resident Michael Soliatis has written to the council to ask for an extension to the deadline for objections, which ends this month, but the plea has been rejected.

A council spokesman said the authority already gives residents 28 days to object, seven days more than required in law.

He said: “We are not able to extend consultation periods depending on the time of year applications are submitted as we have to remain consistent and fair.”