A long-running row between a children s nursery and its neighbours has boiled over again in Sandy. Now residents are accusing the nursery of erecting a portable building without planning permission claiming it means there is even more noise from the site.

A long-running row between a children's nursery and its neighbours has boiled over again in Sandy.

Now residents are accusing the nursery of erecting a portable building without planning permission claiming it means there is even more noise from the site.

In the past residents in Shannon Close have complained about the loud noise of children playing coming from the Toy Box Nursery in the grounds of Sandy Upper School in Medusa Way.

"The nursery has been there several years and in the beginning most of us in the close were working. Now we are retired and home so we hear the noise more and it is horrendous some days," said Pauline Gilpin who lives in the close.

"The other weekend a mobile classroom turned up. We understand no planning permission has been given for the building and older children are using it.

"We are not happy at all. Sometimes I cannot find a room in my house where I can escape to get some peace and quiet from the noise. The authorities must take some action. We just want some peace and quiet."

Another resident Doug Cochrane, 65, claimed: "We went on holiday and when we came back noticed the portable classroom. When my wife went over and asked a director whether the nursery had planning permission for the building the woman just froze.

"The nursery has applied for retrospective planning permission but isn't that like putting the cart before the horse?

"I am not a killjoy but when 30 children are out playing, crying and screaming and the staff are shouting trying to control them the noise is bad.

"It is irritating and the nursery now appears to be in the mood to expand their business. They should have let residents know what their intentions were."

Director of Toy Box Nursery Chris Townson admitted the new building had been erected without planning permission but claimed Mid Beds Council was aware what the nursery's plans were.

"Toy Box has communicated with the council throughout and we are going through the due procedure for planning permission," said Mr Townson, who says the nursery is expanding following the closure of another nursery in Sandy.

"We have applied for retrospective planning permission and of course expect objections. If it is turned down we would appeal.

"Regarding the noise complaints I am delighted people can hear our children. It shows how vibrant and happy they are at play with us."

A Mid Bed District Council spokesman said: "Mid Beds are aware of this matter and have visited the site.

"The building is unauthorised and we have been advised that the owners will be submitting a retrospective planning application to retain it.

"If the application is unsuccessful and the building not removed, then the council will have to investigate the option of enforcement action.