Plans to build flats on a derelict site in Leigh have been given the go ahead.

Permission had already been granted to construct six homes on land at 88 Pall Mall, but Southend Council has approved extended proposals for seven apartments.

Each one will offer two-bedrooms with off-street parking, rubbish facilities and bike storage.

Properties on the back of the three-and-a-half-storey building will also be fitted with balconies.

Applicant Pall Mall Living Ltd had argued the vacant site, which was once home to a gymnasium before it was demolished, was in need of redevelopment having “formed an ugly gap” along the road.

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Previous plans for seven flats were refused by council bosses, but alterations made to the height of the building, layout of the apartments and location of windows has seen the new plans given the green light.

Officers overseeing the proposals said they would not have an adverse impact on traffic in the area or neighbouring buildings.

They also dismissed public objections about overdevelopment of the site, a loss of privacy and the height of the building being out of character with the area.

Leigh Town Council had also objected on similar grounds, and claimed the building would be "hemmed in".