A huge regeneration project will begin in Tottenham after a decision was passed last night to demolish Wards Corner.

Haringey Council passed the development above Seven Sisters tube station after a four-hour meeting at Haringey Civic Centre in Wood Green High Road, which lasted until 1am.

The decision was passed despite Haringey Council receiving 388 letters objecting to the development, and just 13 letters in support.

David Walters, development director at Grainger which is charged with the major work said: “This is great news for Seven Sisters.

"The positive decision by Haringey’s committee reflects the very high level of support shown for the proposals by the local community.

“Over 400 individuals and organisations expressed their support through letters and petitions and we understand this is almost unprecedented in Haringey.”

More than 200 people signed a Proud of Tottenham petition, which was handed in by Councillor Sheila Peacock yesterday. Over 100 supporters wrote comments on the Seven Sisters Regeneration website and 55 people signed a petition of support from traders.

Within the next five years, plans will see 196 new homes, a new market hall as well as 2,619 square metres of retail space.

Mr Walters said the work is a “crucial part” of the Tottenham regeneration vision and is a “fantastic opportunity” to improve employment, safety, investment and opportunity in the area.

However, campaigners believe the development will change the face of Tottenham forever by losing the character and charm of the Victorian and Edwardian buildings.

Mr Walters added: “We hope we will shortly be able to work with the existing businesses, traders and residents on site and in the wider area to make this a reality at last.”

The news comes after impassioned appeals made by 11 opponents of the scheme, including members of the Wards Corner Community Coalition (WCC).

Shop owner Mrs Patel who has worked in Seven Sisters for 30 years battled to hold back the tears when asking Haringey Council to reject the plans.

She has been offered £24,000 in compensation and said: “It is not fair compensation for leaving my friends, my home and my business.”

Eight people spoke in favour of Grainger's plans, with two speakers having to leave because of the late-running of the meeting.