People are being asked to have their say on plans which could quadruple the density of housing in parts of Wanstead and Woodford.

The council’s Neighbourhoods and Communities Service Committee debated four options for the Local Development Framework 2015-30 on Wednesday at Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford.

One of the proposals would allow large-scale developments in traditionally suburban “major corridors” in Woodford Green, South Woodford and Wanstead.

Other plans include building on Oakfield playing fields in Ilford or building on "parcels" of the green belt.

The plans will be discussed by cabinet next Tuesday, and Redbridge council is inviting people to speak at the meeting at the town hall, ahead of a full public consultation.

Cllr Helen Coomb, Labour cabinet member for planning and regeneration, said: “We want to make clear to residents that these are just options at this stage and no decisions are being made without wide public consultation.

“We want to hear from as many residents as possible and the best way to do that is to put all of the possible options on the table and get residents’ views and ideas.

“I know that many local people have concerns about all of the options put forward and we know that all of them have strengths and weaknesses, however, I must stress that doing nothing is not an option.

“We are under increasing pressure to provide much needed homes and school places and as the population increases, the pressure on the borough’s facilities is going to keep on increasing if nothing is done.

“We must find sites for these vital facilities as well as making sure development is as balanced as possible.

"If we don’t, we leave ourselves open to appeals from developers because we won’t be able to justify why we’ve refused their applications.

"This could see all kinds of development being built anywhere.

“We hope residents will work with us to deliver this in the best way possible. We will be listening carefully to all of the suggestions and comments residents make before making any further decisions.”

To speak at cabinet, the public should register an interest by 5pm on Monday by calling 020 8708 2163 or 020 8708 2209 or by emailing jon.simes@redbridge.gov.uk or carole.dungate@redbridge.gov.uk