Controversial plans for a development on public land in Dalston were passed by town hall bosses last week.

The proposal to build 106 flats on two sites east and west of Kingsland High Street, known as the Dalston Western Curve, was resubmitted by Transport for London (TfL), after it withdrew an application in January.

Critics say only nine homes will be affordable and the six-storey development will overshadow many buildings nearby.

Bill Parry-Davies, founder of campaign group Open Dalston, said: “It privatises public land. It is shocking that Hackney itself has invested over £1.3m in this profit-led scheme with so little public benefit.

‘‘Planning Committee members were clearly unhappy but failed to consider relevant policies and their options. Disgraceful.”

A council spokesman said the proposals were broadly in accordance with the requirements of the Dalston Area Action Plan (AAP), saying: “It was acknowledged that parts of the development were one storey higher than recommended by the guidance within the AAP. However, this additional height was considered acceptable as the majority of the development was within the scale range identified by the AAP.”

They added the development would help to repair unattractive gaps in the townscape and would not detract from the appearance of the surrounding area.