Harrow Borough Council have welcomed permission for controversial plans to expand of a primary school.

On Wednesday evening the council's planning committee gave consent for expansion of Vaughan Primary School, in The Gardens, West Harrow.

Proposals included the construction of a new two-storey building, a remodelling of the existing building, and a new parking layout.

The plans have been met with strong opposition from people living near the school who fear a loss of privacy, an increase in traffic and possible flooding.

Portfolio holder for children and schools councillor Zarina Khalid said: “We are pleased that the planning committee granted our application to expand Vaughan School.

“This work is an integral part of the council’s vital primary school expansion programme and without it many children could be left without a school place in future years.

“The population of children is growing in Harrow and the council has a statutory responsibility to ensure we provide our children with school places.

“Vaughan Primary School provides much needed additional school places in a good strategic location to meet local demand.

“I understand the residents' concerns regarding the application and I do sympathise. Their comments were considered alongside all relevant policies and guidelines and we have reviewed the original plans in detail.”