Regeneration plans for Edgware Road

The proposal is among several suggestions set out as part of a multi-million pound regeneration scheme to build up to 700 new homes and boost business in the area over the next 25 to 30 years.

One Church Street Estate resident, who did not want to be named, said: "It's very worrying.

"I have no wish to leave my current home, and I'm certain many other families who may be in the same position feel the same way.

"The area is already too crowded, it's going to be a stretch on residents.

"If there are another 700 homes, you're going to need more schools, health facilities and social services."

Westminster Council said the plans were in their very early stages, and that demolishing part of the Church Street Estate was a "suggestion" rather than a firm plan.

Councillor Philippa Roe, cabinet member for housing, added: "In these particular blocks, some people have expressed concerns and others have been very supportive but if the majority of residents don't want to go ahead, then we won't go ahead.

"There are no concrete plans at all.

"If we do, at any stage, demolish the blocks, the residents will come back to better quality homes with better design standards.

"The area we're proposing to develop is not high density in comparison to other areas of the borough such as Belgravia.

"If anybody does have to be relocated, they would be placed close by and moved back to new and larger properties.

"We have used professional masterplanners to look at the infrastructure, to ensure there will be enough services for the community."

A consultation with residents is due to end in November, and a masterplan will be revealed in December.

Work could start on a few sites by next year.

Other proposals include setting up a new pier on the Regent's Canal, creating a food quarter and building a large community hub with health, childcare and event space.

Lisson Street Gardens and Broadley Street Gardens could also be joined to create one large park.

* To find out more about the plans, email churchstreetnm@westminster.gov.uk or call 020 7641 6633.