Residents are rallying to save a 1930s house from the bulldozers by applying to get it listed by Historic England.

The property, in Elm Hall Gardens, Wanstead, is earmarked for demolition with a proposal for two houses to be built in its place.

The pair would be four-floor, semi-detached, four-bedroom dwellings, including a basement offering an indoor gym and games room.

Space for at least two cars would be provided for both houses.

Last week, the planning application was withdrawn but residents in the road are worried that it is only a matter of time before the house is given permission to be pulled down.

Those living in Elm Hall Gardens have applied to Historic England for the house to be listed under “Arts and Crafts Movement Style”.

It was part of movement in England from 1870 to 1920, characterised by handcrafted buildings using local materials.

Sheila Nicholls said: “It is the simplicity of design which stands out and it was all done by hand.

“There is no other property like this in the area.

She added: “Once she is demolished we’ll lose more of our local history, and so much has gone already.”

Martin Reece, 70, said the building was an important part of the street.

“I have lived in this road since 1971 so I would prefer to see it refurbished rather than just demolished,” he said.

“The house is a grand old girl, it stands out in the area and it would be a shame to see it go.”

The applicant, listed as Mansfield Tear, said the building had been left empty for 20 years and was currently “uninhabitable”.

In the application it says: “The existing dwelling is in an abandoned un-kept state, having been vacant for over 20 years.

“In its current condition it has a very negative impact on the visual appearance and perceived security of the area.

“It does not contribute to the local housing stock which is a waste of valuable residential land.

It adds: “The pair of semi-detached houses will, in our opinion, preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the area.”