A RESIDENTS’ group is concerned that proposals to double the number of places at Drayton Green Primary School could spell gridlock on nearby roads.
West Ealing Neighbours reacted with concern to the possibility of Ealing Council doubling the school’s pupils from 210 to 420.
David Highton, chair of West Ealing Neighbours said: “I think it’s one of those impossible situations. There’s a lot of pressure on schools at the moment to provide more spaces.”
Mr Highton said that the increase would double the school-related traffic which, with the impact of a housing development nearby, could wreak traffic havoc.
“If this project goes ahead it will negate much or all of the benefit of the recently-installed controlled parking zone. There are obvious concerns that this is going to have an impact. Mothers and fathers will be collecting their children and that is going to make congestion more of a problem.
“The final deadline for the consultation is June 8 so it’s extremely important that people share their views with the council.”
A spokeswoman for Ealing Council said: “There has been a 37 per cent increase in births in this part of the borough over the past 10 years and Drayton Green received 139 applications for just 30 places last year.
“At this stage, we are consulting on proposals to permanently expand the school and we would like to hear from as many people as possible. There is no plan to remove the controlled parking zone.
“If the expansion goes ahead, a further planning consultation will take place which will fully explore impacts on local traffic and parking.”
