SEVENTY residents have joined together to oppose the Tauheedul Trust’s proposals to build a new primary school in Blackburn.

The group, who have all submitted formal letters of objection to Blackburn with Darwen borough planning committee, are backed by Tory councillor Imtiaz Ali.

They are concerned about the impact of extra traffic and parking on road safety from the proposed new 630 pupil Olive Primary.

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The Tauheedul Education Trust wants to build the a two storey complex on Meins Road, Beardwood, on fields next to its girls academy.

Under the plan, pupil numbers will grow from an initial 240 to 630.

The school is currently in Bicknell Street, Shear Brow.

The residents of Meins Road, Preston New Road and adjoining streets concerns are supported by the nearby Westholme School and BMI Beardwood Hospital.

Beardwood with Lammack ward’s Coun Ali said on behalf of the residents: “We are very happy that the Olive school is expanding and providing an education to our children.

“The school and council need to take steps to minimise the impact to the residents and the environment.

“It is not the only development here to contribute traffic congestion; we also have a redevelopment and expansion of the Banyan Tree and Woodlands Hotel.

“We feel from our findings the least impact would be if the access were via Preston New Road.

“The residents are concerned that nowhere does the application take in account their needs.

“The applicant, council and the local residents need to work together to achieve a far better and more acceptable solution.”

The Tauheedul Education Trust said in a statement: “The Olive School is delivering outstanding education to children in the local area.

“We are continuing to work closely with the community to ensure we find the very best solution for all parties.” David Colley, associate director of transport consultants Sanderson Associates, retained by the residents, said: “The application does not take into account the overall impact of traffic movements in the area from commuters, Westholme, Tauheedul Girls’ High School, School House Nursery, and Beardwood Hospital.

“Residents believe that having the school entrance on Meins Road is dangerous for children and drivers.”

In July a Channel Four TV documentary alleged staff at the free Olive primary school had banned clapping and music in class.

An emergency Ofsted report cleared the school of all accusations.