Moves to prevent seven three-storey townhouses from being built in Barkingside have been taken by the development’s residents.

Moody Homes Ltd want to build the properties behind a row of cottages in Tanners Lane.

But neighbouring residents have organised a petition to stop the developers building on what is currently green space.

Organiser Heike Costin, of Sandringham Close, said: “People are horrified by these plans. It seems hopping mad to suggest building more houses in this area when it is already congested.

“This is the only green oasis nearby and if the houses are built I won’t be able to sit anywhere in my house without having 24 windows looking at me.”

Kalpna Acharya, who lives in the same street, said: “The design, size and scale of the proposal is totally out of proportion to adjacent properties.

“The development would have a whole storey higher than my home and residents in nearby roads. Instead of a green area that has screened us from the row of cottages, we will be faced with a row of windows causing an intrusive change.

“We are already plagued with cars from shoppers and visitors, so these houses would make the problem worse as only one space is being provided.”

The consultation period for the application ended on July 25 and more than 20 objection letters have been submitted to Redbridge Council.

Timothy Bird, of Sandringham Gardens, added: “The ongoing development of the Barnardo’s site will increase the residential population of the area dramatically. This development will only add to the congestion.”

A spokesman for Moody Homes said: “The style of properties designed by the architect are not three storeys in height. They have their principle accommodation over two floors, making them two-and-a-half storeys.

“The houses will meet a demand in Barkingside for smaller houses for first-time buyers.The properties all have an allocated car parking space in line with the council’s requirement in a town centre location.”