NEIGHBOURS have objected to a resident's planned extension with one gripe being that solar panels will be too reflective.

Uzair Pandor, of Forest Way, Woodford Green, has applied to Redbridge Council to alter his home but 15 objections have been lodged by nine homes nearby.

Forest Way is within the Monkhams Residential Precinct which means it is an area of special character that the council recognises with certain planning policies to help retain character.

The proposal is to demolish an existing side extension and build a two storey front, side and rear extension and a single storey front and rear extension with a raised decking area to the rear.

The environmentally friendly plans include a green 'living' roof and providing solar panels which would generate 1,400 kilowatts of electricity a year.

Susan and Gordon Green, of Denehurst Gardens, which is behind Forest Way, have five causes for concern.

A letter to the council said: "The proposed development appears to be very modern and not sympathetic with the surrounding properties.

"The fenestrations are not in keeping with that of surrounding properties.

"External finishes are out of character with existing properties.

"The proposed development appears to be excessive in relation to the size of the original house.

"The south-facing roof with two windows and nine photovoltaic panels will be highly reflective."

Alexander and Margaret Bruce, of Forest Way, said: "This extension would not be compatible with, nor would it contribute to, the distinctive character and amenity of our area.

"It would prejudice our ability to enjoy the amenity of our property by unreasonably restricting the sunlight, daylight and our privacy.

"We obviously admire the attempts to reduce the carbon footprint of the house and welcome innovations such as those, provided that they are not detrimental to the amenity of the area."

The application is due to be discussed by the council's regional planning committee west next Wednesday, September 22.