A GOVERNMENT inspector has stepped in to approved plans to bulldoze a bungalow to make way for three new homes.

The proposals to demolish 34 Elmsleigh Drive, Leigh, to make way for a terrace of three town house style properties, were initially rejected by Southend Council last year.

Councillors claimed the development would be out of keeping with the area’s character.

But Government Planning Inspector Graham Wyatt disagreed and has ruled the development must be allowed to go ahead.

In his ruling published earlier this month, he said: “On the whole, the area is varied and diverse and the introduction of the development as proposed would not result in the erosion of any identified or established character.

“I find the overall design and layout of the development to add interest to the street scene and given its variation, I also find that the area has the capacity to accept the development in the form proposed.

He added: “The proposed development would assimilate with the surrounding pattern of development, without resulting in harm to its character or appearance.”

Mr Wyatt ordered the developers to ensure the proposal includes sustainable development measures, with at least 10 per cent of the total energy needs provided from renewable sources.