Sadiq Khan decided to intervene after Hounslow Council refused permission to build 427 homes on the Citroen Site on Capital Interchange Way.

Housing association L&Q’s plans include 40% affordable homes, together with a nursery, and retail and office space

Hounslow Council decided to refuse permission on the underutilised site earlier this month over concerns the development would negatively impact on local heritage sites including Kew Gardens.

Tallest tower of five-block scheme will rise to 18 floors

Khan, said: “I have been clear that I will use the full range of my planning powers to help get London building the new and genuinely affordable housing we so desperately need.

“This rejected application in Brentford already delivers a good number of affordable homes, but by taking it over, it gives me the opportunity to work with the housing association, L&Q, to increase the levels even further.

“I will, of course, weigh up concerns raised about the impact on nearby heritage sites with the pressing need for more new and affordable homes in London.”

The Mayor will consider the application at a representation hearing at City Hall later in the year.

It is the fifth time the Mayor has used the full range of his planning powers to take over applications to boost affordable housing.

His decisions to take over applications have already resulted in 572 more affordable homes for Londoners.