An online glitch which led to people automatically registering support for a redevelopment site has been described as “unacceptable”.

A public consultation is underway into the redevelopment of Apex House, in Seven Sisters Road, after developers Grainger plc bought the site from Haringey Borough Council last year. More than 300 homes will be built on the site. 

However, a website error meant that people subscribing for updates automatically ticked a small box underneath saying they supported the redevelopment.

A screenshot of the website, with a box in the bottom right-hand corner showing support for the redevelopment

Tottenham Independent:

Martin Ball, 40, of Park View Road, Tottenham Hale, noticed the issue last week and said it was “scandalous”.

Mr Ball, who works for a mental health charity, added: “If they feel it’s necessary to do that, why don’t they give you a chance to properly say no I don’t support development? It’s a massaging of support and is certainly a dubious tactic. This is an unacceptable way of gathering support.

“I nearly pressed it. You should not have to opt out. Signing up for information should be straightforward. It means a default position that you have consented.

“They should decouple giving details for information and updates to whether people support the development.”

The website has been changed since Mr Ball raised it with Grainger, and a spokesman said the company will not be using the people who had previously ticked the box as evidence of support.

David Walters, development director at Grainger plc, added: “We are currently engaged in an extensive consultation programme for our Apex House proposals that would deliver a development of real high-quality design, including 150 new homes, retail space and a new landmark building for Tottenham.

“We have already hosted a series of meetings with local groups and held a well-attended initial public exhibition to introduce the project team and present our aspirations for the site at this early stage.

“Comments and feedback are encouraged throughout this process to help inform our evolving designs and we will be holding a second exhibition in the near future as part of our continued engagement programme.”