A HISTORIC mansion doomed to destruction has won a temporary reprieve due to the quick-thinking action of neighbouring residents.

Chepstow House in Leicester Road, Wanstead, was refused listed building status which meant that Telford Homes could demolish it, despite being denied planning permission to develop the site.

But nearby residents persuaded Redbridge Council to put a block on plans to bulldoze the Edwardian building - allowing them with more time to campaign for conservation status.

They believe that if successful the extra expense of fulfilling the criteria of building in a conservation zone will persuade Telford Homes to convert Chepstow House itself to flats or replace it with fewer high-quality units than on the original plans.

Counties Estate Resident's Association chairwoman Helen Zammett said: "It's a good result. We are very pleased about it and grateful to the planning officers for moving so quickly. We accept that the building may eventually have to be built on but we just want the new construction to be of the highest standard.

"We believe that getting conservation status for the area will be the best way to achieve that and so will continue to campaign for that."

A spokewoman from Redbridge Council said they prevented the iconic house being torn down by putting a Town and Country Planning Order (1995) Article four direction on Telford Homes.

She said: "We have issued a directive to prevent any demolition of Chepstow House until the matter comes under the consideration from the Planning Inspectorate.

"Telford wanted to tear the building down but planning officers realised there was a great public outcry about the site and moved to prevent this until the final decision has been made."

Telford Homes managing director Mark Parker said the council's move will have to be verified by the Government Office for London.

He added: "It seems like an unusual step to take as if they are proved wrong - and I'm sure they will be - they will have to pay us compensation which seems a complete waste of taxpayers' money.

"It's peculiar as the same planning department gave permission to move ahead with the demolition on the agenda report of the regulatory committee meeting. Maybe it's something personal."