A primary school received a high level of support for a proposed scheme to regenerate a nearby housing estate and ease congestion on surrounding roads at the area committee seven meeting last week.

Representatives from Christchurch Primary School, Wellesley Road, Ilford have pledged �3,000 to the project and put forward their proposed plans during the meeting at Aldborough E-ACT Free School, Aldborough Road South, Seven Kings.

The school has been working closely with Living Streets, an organisation working to make streets safer, to transform the nearby Commonwealth Estate, Gants Hill, in to a more walking friendly environment.

Fitter for Walking project manager Jack Skillen highlighted a number of key points for the project, which include blocking an emergency barrier to prevent congestion, cleaning up nearby front gardens and planting trees in the area.

Denise Broughton, deputy headteacher at Christchurch Primary School, said: “We are committed to this project that could reduce congestion and provide a nicer environment around the school. The school are willing to put up to �3,000 towards the planting and maintenance of the trees.”

The speakers received a warm and passionate reaction from councillors, who recognise the need for action around the school.

Valentines ward councillor and cabinet member for environment and community safety, Shoaib Patel, said: “I think it’s a fantastic project and I just want to say I think Jack knows that he has my whole backing on this.

“I can’t make any promises but I hope it goes ahead. I will work closely with the school to drive this project forward.”

Cllr Patel’s views were shared by fellow ward councillor Ross Hatfull, who said: “I know these roads and they are pretty grim and pretty off putting. I’m all for anything that can make it more friendly. This is a scheme that has my full support.”

The committee advised the school to provide an application for funds to be considered at a later date.