A developer’s appeal over rejected plans to build a block of flats opposite a school has been rejected following a campaign by residents.

Palmhurst Group had applied for planning permission to build a four-storey block of five one-bedroom flats in the car park behind 630 High Road – a block of 14 apartments – in Woodford Green, opposite Bancroft’s School.

The proposals were initially put in to Redbridge Council in January but were withdrawn two months later over concerns from planning officers over parking, bins and emergency access.

A second application was resubmitted in October “in direct response” to officers’ concerns, but in November Redbridge Council rejected the plans.

Now an appeal launched by the group has also been overturned by the planning inspectorate.

Cliff Bramah, of Burlington Place, said residents were relieved over the decision.

“The appeal brings to end over fourteen months of uncertainty for local residents after the first application was received,” he said.