The council’s controversial new headquarters was given planning approval as opposition members refused to vote on the scheme.

The four Labour party members of the planning committee walked out of the meeting on Thursday, in protest of the proposal.

The committee were set to debate the application by the council to build a new headquarters in Fell Road, the current site of other council offices.

Councillor Paul Scott told the committee: “The council has tied itself into a contract that could result in huge penalties, running into many thousands of pounds, if this planning application is refused.

“That is a considerable impediment to impartial decision making, especially when members opposite have already publicly supported the go ahead of this development.

“As everybody knows, this scheme is a key part of the Conservative Council’s Policy.

“Yet, Conservative colleagues are going to have to put all of that aside in a few minutes time.

“However, while we have serious concerns regarding the poor quality design of this building, the negative impact it will have upon our lovely old town hall and its iconic clock tower, along with other planning concerns, let me be clear that it is because this scheme represents the biggest ever waste of taxpayers money in history, that my colleagues and I feel unable to take part in this decision.”

Couns Scott, Khan Hall and Coun Jason Parry responded: “This scheme must be considered on its own merit. It is a great shame the opposition members are using this occasion to score political points when we are looking at a planning application.”

Coun Brian Cakebread said: “Croydon is starting to move forward and this will provide a legacy for our future.”

Council leader Coun Mike Fisher described the opposition’s actions as a “cheap publicity stunt”, pointed out there were no planning reasons to refuse to participate, it was an “abrogation” of their civic responsibility, and they were “unfit to take important decisions”.

The redevelopment, which was eventually approved, is the first stage of the council’s Urban Regeneration vehicle, a partnership between it and John Laing developers.

The partnership sees the council allow John Laing to redevelop four council owned sites, with a 50:50 share of the profits at the end.