A BLOCK of 17 new flats in place of a former florists looks set to go ahead despite opposition from Leigh Town Council.

A proposal to demolish the former florists, Grey Gardens, in London Road, Leigh, has been recommended for approval by planning officers at Southend Council.

A shop will be located on the ground floor of the building with eight one-bedroom, five two bedroom and four three-bedroom flats above along with ten parking spaces.

Applicant, Carlton Group Developments, says 20 per cent of the homes will be social housing.

Leigh Town Council formally objected to the application, which will be debated by Southend Council’s development control committee on Wednesday.

Leigh Town Council raised concerns over the design and character as well as its size which it said was “overbearing” and out of keeping with the area.

Bernard Arscott, chairman of Leigh Town Council, said: “The town council is concerned by developments in this stretch of the London Road.

“At present the buildings are quite low-line but this development will be quite large and the town council feels it will be overbearing in that location.

“It’s disappointing that the city council officers are recommending approval of the application.

“We hope that councillors on development control will consider very carefully the objections of the town council.”

A neighbour objected also on the grounds it was too big and overbearing. Planning officers dismissed the concerns as not justifiable reasons for refusal.

A report to the committee said: “The proposed development would be acceptable and compliant with relevant development plan policies and guidance.

“The principle of the development, including use of this land for housing and the housing mix are acceptable.

“The proposed design and scale of the development would have an acceptable impact on the character and appearance of the site, the street scene and the wider surrounding area. Subject to conditions the proposal would have an acceptable impact on the amenities of neighbours. The proposal would provide an acceptable standard of accommodation for new occupiers.”