PLANS to raise the height of a block of plush flats close to Chalkwell seafront have been given the green light, despite concerns from residents.

Southend Council’s development control committee agreed plans on Monday night for alterations at 28 to 31 Chalkwell Esplanade that will see accommodation extended into the roof space and a three-storey side and rear extension.

Plans to build a four-storey side and rear extension and first and second-floor side extension were refused in 2021 on the grounds the building would be overbearing and out of keeping.

The new plans reduce the width and bulk of the flats and were recommended for approval by planning officers. The council received five objections, with concerns raised over the building’s “poor design” and overdevelopment in the area.

Following the approval, James Courtenay, Conservative councillor for Chalkwell Ward, said: “I’m pleased that the developer has listened to the reasons the application was declined last time and upheld on appeal.

“This application was a better, less imposing design and more in keeping with the local area. It has the same number of flats and parking spaces so this is good.”

The number of flats remains unchanged in total, despite the additional floor. Currently there is one, two-bed flat on each of the ground and first floor and two, one-bed flats on the second floor. However, the proposal has one larger two-bed flat on each of the four floors.

Mr Courtenay added: “I’m pleased it was sent to development control as councillors were able to review the application in its entirety and weigh up the pros and cons in line with planning policy.

“I hope the applicant minimises disruption for their neighbours whilst getting on with it.”

Planning officers said: “The proposed development which improved and enlarges an existing four unit flats block, would be acceptable and compliant with the objectives of the relevant development plan policies and guidance. The proposal has satisfactorily addressed the inspector’s concerns in the 2021 appeal about the design, scale and form of the development and would have an acceptable impact on the character and appearance of the application site, street scene and the locality more widely.”