FEARFUL homeowners have joined forces to oppose plans to transform a school in a conservation area.

In total, 28 households registered objections to an application from David Malyon to improve facilities at Avon House School in Woodford Green.

The applicant wants to build a music room, expand the library and increase the size of the headmaster’s and admin staff’s office.

Conservative Councillor Michael Stark has asked Redbridge Council’s planning committee to rule over due to the level of opposition.

Homeowners worry that if the application is approved it will look out of character with the rest of the area, fear that it will overshadow neighbouring properties, negatively impact traffic and parking and look out of proportion.

A spokesperson for Avon House says staff are mindful of traffic issues and claims the application will boost the quality of children’s learning.

They say: “We have already put measures in place for before school with a drop and go system for all but our youngest children, which has kept the traffic moving without congestion.

“We are aware that concern has been raised as residents believe that class sizes will rise but this is not the case. We can confirm that that the capacity of the school will not change as a result of this application.

“The school has always been mindful of the traffic flow and parking around school. We have already put measures in place for before school with a drop and go system for all but our youngest children, which has kept the traffic moving without congestion.

“Senior staff, as well as traffic wardens, are in place every morning and we have coned off the verge in Inmans Row to signal a no parking zone.

“We believe this application will give us facilities that will add enormously to the work and education of children in the Woodford area.”

A planning officer’s report submitted into the impact on surrounding homes found that the proposal “would have no significant impact” on privacy.

The report also found that the additions are “considered” acceptable in terms of size and scale and would “preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area”.

Avon House has three floors and is situated among homes and businesses.