CHECK out three key planning applications in south Essex that have been submitted or decided on this week.

1. 3 – 4 Cabinet Way, Eastwood:

An empty storage yard is set to be transformed into a new “mini-business park” after plans were given the green light by Southend Council.

Southend Council has approved plans submitted by “Mr Govey and Mr Styles” for a new “light industrial building” consisting of five units at Cabinet Way, Eastwood.

The plans will see five new businesses move onto the site close to Progress Road.

According to plans, the site is currently used as a storage yard and parking area that officers say is “underutilised currently”.

The approved proposal will provide workshops, research and development, and storage and distribution for small businesses like furniture, car parts and repairs, printshops and other light industrial uses.

Reference: 24/00355/FUL

2. 89 High Street, Billericay:

A former town centre bank dating back to the 19th century will be transformed into new flats after plans were given the green light.

Basildon Council has approved an application to change the use of the former Lloyds bank, in Billericay High Street, and for three homes to be built inside.

The ground floor will also be transformed into a shop under the plans.

Lloyds closed its doors to customers in November 2022 after a fall in use and the building has remained empty ever since.

The applicant, Klara 89 Limited, has insisted that exterior works will be minimal, so the heritage of the building is retained.

Reference: 24/00119/FULL

3. Land rear of 311 Pound Lane, Bowers Gifford:

Fresh plans could see 31 homes built on a parcel of green belt land in between the A13 and A127.

Developer Ceres Property has submitted plans to Basildon Council in a bid to transform open space near Pound Lane, in Bowers Gifford, into a new housing development.

The plans would consist of 20 new residential homes, as well as 11 “affordable” homes.

As part of the development, the developer admitted the proposal could be deemed as “inappropriate development” on the green belt, but highlighted Basildon Council’s lack of local plan as justification.

Reference: 24/00294/OUT