Long-sought planning permission has finally been given to a charity looking to build what could be “the last children’s hospice built in London”.

Noah’s Ark children’s hospice has been providing a “hospice at home” for North London and Hertsmere while long trying to raise funds to build its own centre.

Last night’s (January 26) planning committee saw Barnet Council approve plans for a new hospice building in Byng Road, High Barnet.

The construction of a purpose-built centre for palliative care was described as “long overdue” at the meeting and the work is clear to go ahead if the environmental needs are met.

Noah’s Ark chief executive Ru Watkins said: “Our build team has worked tirelessly to integrate the important environmental requirements of our site and the needs of children and families who will be using this building for vital hospice services.

“The two sets of needs are very much aligned, as environmental considerations are key to providing an appropriate hospice setting.

“We are delighted the efforts of our team were recognised in last night’s decision by the planning committee.

“We believe, given the paucity of land available for such schemes, this will prove to be the last children’s hospice built in London.”

Noah’s Ark has been one of Cllr David Longstaff’s chosen charities in his term as mayor of Barnet.

He said: “The Barnet community has long held Noah’s Ark close to its heart – loyally supporting the charity’s vital work in supporting local children and families in their homes for many years.

“Last night’s decision is a significant milestone – putting the charity one step closer to its long-held ambition of constructing a hospice building.”

Noah’s Ark currently supports around 150 children and their families at home and in the community and the new building will enable the charity to care for more than 450 children and their families.

The bright, eco-friendly hospice building will include six children’s bedrooms and three self-contained family rooms.

Facilities will include training areas for nurses and specialist carers, to help deliver badly needed support and care more widely.

The building will also provide end of life care and bereavement suites.

As environmental concerns were key in the conditions set down by the council, the building will sit in a 7.5-acre nature reserve.