Concerned neighbours of an ‘outstanding’ primary school have registered objections to its near doubling in size.
There have been over 50 objections to the plans to expand Keyworth Primary School in Faunce Street, Kennington, where the council want to erect a two storey building accommodating nine new classrooms.
The development would allow the Ofsted-approved school to take in 630 pupils, 269 more than it does currently.
Residents living in Sharsted Street and Faunce Street are concerned their cul-de-sacs are going to be overwhelmed by the increase in traffic from the additional pupils and would prefer the expansion to go on the neighbouring council-owned Kennington Enterprise Centre site in Braganza Street. There have also been concerns registered that the new building is only two metres away from one neighbouring property and many homes will be plunged into relative darkness in the shadow of the new building.
Cllr Victoria Mills, Southwark’s cabinet member for children and schools, said: “The planned expansion of this school will help local families to secure places at their local school.
“The expansion is also an opportunity to improve the facilities at the school and make sure that children are being taught in a high-quality learning environment rather than portacabins.
“The design proposal ensures that classes and external areas meet necessary standards, and includes the potential to re-open an existing entrance in Doddington Grove to help mitigate against any increased traffic. Appropriate surveys have been carried out and submitted with the planning application. The council has listened to feedback on the proposals, including the concerns of some residents, and made changes to the plans as a result.”