An MP has spoken out against a controversial planning application to double the size of a block of flats.

Oakleighs Developments had applied in February to add a four-storey extension to the block in Burlington Place, off High Road, Woodford Green.

The plans were withdrawn in April, but a fresh application was lodged a month ago, with changes to the lay-out of parking at the site.

There will now be 21 parking spots and space for the parking of 19 bicycles on the ground floor, instead of the proposed two-storey car park in the withdrawn plans.

Neighbours claimed the development would be too large for the narrow lane and their privacy would be compromised.

Woodford Green MP Iain Duncan Smith had joined the calls for the application to be rejected in February, and this month stated how he objected to the plans due to concerns over parking, loss of privacy and noise.

In a letter to Redbridge council, Mr Duncan Smith said: “Firstly, the new development will again make already congested roads even more so.

“The report states that there will be ‘no overspill parking’ after the new flats are built, but there are already parking problems on these roads and this development will only exacerbate those.

“Furthermore the height and density of the new development will again overshadow neighbouring properties and dominate the surrounding area.

“There will also be a significant loss of privacy for residents in Burlington Place, the High Road and the Glade, as a result of the new windows which are proposed in the existing building.

“Finally the rooftop balcony carries noise and privacy concerns for residents.”

The consultation period ends next Wednesday.