WORRIED residents are fighting plans for a £15million expansion of Colchester Academy.

The school, in Hawthorn Avenue, Greenstead, proposes a new three-storey building, including sports centre and theatre.

Residents of Acacia Avenue say it would be too close to their homes, would block light, devalue their properties and create traffic problems.

Sheila Barnham and husband David are leading a campaign to have the plans altered.

Mrs Barnham, 62, said: “We have lived here for 41 years without problems and I haven’t a problem with the school being upgraded.

“But we weren’t aware of how long the building was going to be. The windows will face right into ours.”

Mrs Barnham has approached neighbours and urged them to oppose the plans.

People living near the school were notified of the proposals by letter on April 5.

Riccardo Grillo, 27, of Acacia Avenue, said: “This scheme is not in keeping with the general open plan of the estate and will reduce our daylight.

“The school could have consulted us informally before putting in a planning application.

Neighbour Kerry Freer, 37, said: “I have already e-mailed my objection. I don’t want this building blocking my view.” The plans include a swimming pool, a 240 to 400-seat theatre and an IT suite. The facilities would be available to the public outside school hours.

Headteacher Barry Hersom said he welcomed comments from residents. He said: “These are issues we considered in our design. Once they see what we are going to do, they will feel reassured.’’ Mr Hersom said the building planned to face Acacia Avenue would be a two-storey wing of the three-storey development.

He said: “We are very conscious we need to be good neighbours. They have the right to their say. That is critical.”

Colchester Council has the final say on the application.

Residents can view the plans and give their views at a consultation event at the school on Tuesday, from 4pm until 7pm.