Residents have called for improved infrastructure to cope with new developments proposed for Gants Hill.

A complex including a “major” supermarket, retail space and new homes is planned for a plot in Eastern Avenue.

An action plan adopted in 2009 included a minimum 800 new homes, 517 of which have already been built, across several sites.

Speaking at Tuesday’s area committee seven meeting in Highlands Primary School, Highlands Gardens, Ilford, resident Dharam Sahdev, of The Crescent, said a new GP practice or health centre as well as a council-run children’s nursery is needed to cope with the increase in population.

Cllr Shoaib Patel said more homes are needed to avoid more “beds in sheds” and multiple-occupancy homes in the area.

Some residents worried that another supermarket would crush small businesses and grocers.

Cllr Ashok Kumar said: “I’m surprised we need another supermarket.

“It will need to be supported by the infrastructure.”

A six-week consultation on the development, which began last month, runs until February 25.

Representations can be made by emailing ewan.coke@redbridge.gov.uk, or writing to: Gants Hill Development Brief, Planning and Regeneration Service, London Borough of Redbridge, Freepost RSLR–JACE–HSUG, Ilford, IG1 1DD.