A rock school in Twickenham rejects "unnecessary" plans from an American rock school which want to build its first branch in the UK.

British School of Rock (BSOR), which teach its classes at Orleans Park School has expressed its opposition to the proposals from School of Rock to turn the former Barclays Bank into a rock school on York Street.

School of Rock is the world's largest multi location school which started in the USA in 1998.

The plans would bring the company its first location in the UK and then see it expand to 30+ locations around the country 'in the years to come'.

Alan Procter from BSOR argues that another rock school in the area could over saturate the market, impact traffic levels, create noise pollution and effect property values.

British School of Rock has been giving music lessons since 2014 (credit: Google Maps).

He writes: "The introduction of another rock school, particularly in the town centre, adds little value to the community, as comparable services and educational facilities are already available.

"This unnecessary duplication undermines the balanced development of the area and risks over-saturating the market...The proposed location lacks sufficient parking facilities to accommodate staff, students, and visitors.

"This will inevitably lead to additional strain on the already limited parking in Twickenham town centre, further disrupting businesses and residents. 

"A rock school situated in the heart of Twickenham town centre raises significant concerns about noise pollution.

"The nature of such an establishment involves amplified music and frequent rehearsals, which will disrupt the daily lives of residents and detract from the experience of visitors to the area.

"The intrusive noise will conflict with the tranquil character expected in a residential and commercial area, ultimately reducing the town centre's appeal. 

"Potential buyers may perceive the proximity of such a facility as undesirable due to anticipated noise and disruption.

"This perception could dissuade prospective homeowners and investors, ultimately affecting the local real estate market and the financial interests of current property owners."

An artist impression of the new School of Rock in Twickenham (credit: Planning application).

However, Twickenham Riverside Ward Councillor James Chard supports the the proposals as he feels it will provide jobs and educational opportunities to the community.

Cllr Chard says: "I support this application on the basis that a new music school on this site, which has been empty for some time, will provide employment and educational opportunities, and provide a positive cultural activity for young people locally.

"The site is particularly appropriate for a music school given its proximity to Eel Pie Island with its historic links to music."

School of Rock wishes to refit the former Barclays Bank with new sound proof music rooms and signage.

In its plans it intends to open from Monday to Friday, 10am to 10:30pm (main student hours: 4pm–8pm) and Saturdays from 10am to 6pm (main student hours: 11am–2pm).

Music lessons are aimed at students from the ages of 4 to 18+ and at peak times the school says it can manage up to 25 students at once.

On behalf of School of Rock, 4D Planning state: "It is not by accident that the applicant seeks to open a School of Rock premises within a town centre.

"Experience has shown that such locations are key to successful operations as the students / parents of students make use of high street services before, after or during (in the case of parents) lessons."

To read the full application click here.

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