Concerns have been raised over potential future traffic problems from Maidstone’s newest free school.

More than 150 people attended a meeting on Monday to discuss Jubilee Primary School in Gatland Lane, Barming, and its intention to offer spaces for 420 pupils by 2020.

Speakers fear the surrounding roads would not cope with the extra vehicles at peak times, despite assurances from the education provider.

Claire Baldock, 26, of Shelley Road, said: “There’s already so much strain on the roads, especially at the junction with The Fountain pub. Having a school with more than 400 children will just make it worse and more dangerous.”

The heated discussion, held at Fant Hall, was arranged by the town’s Labour Party after an application was lodged with Maidstone council to make the classrooms permanent.

The school, launched by the Jubilee Church in Upper Stone Street, opened at Gatland House in September with an intake of 30 children but is yet to secure approval to permanently change the site’s use. It was previously occupied by Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust.

Under government measures confirmed last year, state-funded free schools, run by teachers, parents or religious groups, can open in almost any building without the need for planning permission for up to a year.

A spokesman for the applicant, the Education Funding Agency, which supports all state-funded schools, said: “We recognise there are concerns about the possible impact of the school on traffic, but we are keen to work with the community to minimise impact on the road network.”

The agency added a strategy would be put in place to tackle congestion and dismissed rumours the school is connected to any proposed housing developments or that would it operate a selective admissions policy.

The size of the building was raised as another concern with Cllr Paul Harper (Lab) calling the site “inappropriate” for the number of proposed pupils but it was explained permission was being sought to expand.

Bryan Fitzgerald, chair of governors, said: “Gatland House will require a rear extension to provide accommodation that meets the Department for Education’s specification for a new school and of 420 pupils. The existing asphalt car park is a playground and there is a further grassed area to the rear of the site. The site provides the required capacity.”

Mr Fitzgerald also disputed claims neighbours were not consulted and stressed 5,000 questionnaires were delivered, as well as letters.

Cllr Stephen Paine (Con), said: "The proposal for a new school is splitting our community in two - between those desperate for a local school space, and those who are concerned about the traffic impact on our roads.

"Whilst it is a controversial application, I'm sure we can negotiate a good scheme which satisfies both lobbies. The need for good community engagement is key as we move forwards."

People are welcome to contact Jubilee School to arrange a visit or get more details by calling 01622 808873.