The preferred development partner for the Brent Cross Cricklewood South scheme has been revealed.

Argent and its partner Related will be recommended to Barnet Borough Council’s assets, regeneration and growth committee on March 3 as the council’s partner for the scheme, in which 7,500 homes will be built to the south of the North Circular Road.

The decision will be approved by the full council later the same evening.

The scheme already has outline planning permission as part of the wider Brent Cross Cricklewood development, which opponents have said will be a “living hell”.

Barnet Council leader Councillor Richard Cornelius said: “I have always said this council had no intention to ‘take the money and run’. We are looking for a long term partner to work with the council to create a thriving town centre, making the most of the transformed shopping centre and getting the best deal for local residents.

“We had four excellent proposals from a mix of UK and international teams. What shone through in the proposal from Argent Related was that they had a long-term vision for Brent Cross South, had clear views on how that vision would be supported over time and knew how to make the best of a transformed shopping centre.”

Sir Edward Lister, Deputy Mayor of London for planning, said: “This is a crucial step as we look to transform Brent Cross Cricklewood into one of the premier places to live, work and visit in the capital.

“I look forward to seeing this vitally important part of London transformed over the coming years.”