Sir Roger Manwood’s School could be forced to update its traffic plan after Highways criticised its coach facilities.

The school in Sandwich has submitted a planning application for a new technology block that would result in the demolition of the existing block.

It would also involve creating additional car parking but KCC Highways says this should be extended to include coaches.

KCC development planner Richard Smith said: “Visibility up Manwood Road for pupils and other pedestrians crossing north to south is poor, as is the visibility of pedestrians to drivers turning left into Manwood Road. “Coaches currently reverse into Manwood Road while pupils are trying to cross the road, and park on the north side of the road, requiring pupils to enter/exit the coaches from the carriageway rather than the footway.”

Residents of Manwood Road have complained that the road is too busy, with coaches waiting too long outside their homes.

Residents have submitted 13 objections to the technology block application on the grounds of transport and coach issues.

Mr Darby, of The Swallows, said: “Parking restrictions between Manwood Road and Delfside would ease traffic flow and improve pedestrian safety. The pavements are very narrow, particularly when the hedges remain untrimmed, so pedestrians are forced to walk in the road at peak times. Parked cars on this bend cause an extra obstruction. Pity the local residents faced with hordes of schoolchildren fighting for pavement space.”

In its application, Manwood’s says it will increase the hard standing area off St George’s Road for parking, but KCC Highways says this should also accommodate coaches.

It states a field to the east of the site could also be extended to allow access for coaches.

It also suggests a footway build-out should be provided on the north side of the Manwood Road junction to improve visibility.

Sir Roger Manwood’s School said it could not comment while the application process was ongoing.