PLANS to extend a Bournemouth preparatory school have been given the go-ahead, despite objections from concerned local residents.

Civic chiefs gave permission for Talbot House school to transform a dwelling in Frederica Road into a classroom, archives room, bursar’s office and head’s office with an early year’s dry playing area also on the corner plot.

Twelve letters of objection were sent to the Town Hall citing concerns including traffic fears and potential parking problems.

Planning officer Joscelyn Ratcliffe recommended that the scheme should be refused but, after hearing deputations supporting and objecting to the scheme, the council granted permission subject to conditions including restricting pupil numbers to 180.

Moving that approval should be given, ward councillor Elaine Cooper stressed that the school needed “breathing space”.

Cllr Robert Lawton seconded the move which was carried after eight councillors voted in favour and two abstained.