A BUNGALOW, initially built in the back garden of a rest home for use by the owners, should be allowed to become a separate property, planning officers say.

A double garage in the garden of 100 Cumberland Avenue, Southend, was converted into a bungalow for the owners of a care home in the main house in the 1980s.

In 1989, the main property was converted into a day nursery, but has now been turned back into a house.

The occupants of the back property are now applying for permission to retain it as a single dwelling.

Head of planning Steve Kearney said the building appeared to have not had any detrimental effect on nearby homes in the past 20 years.

He added: "It is considered permission could not reasonably be refused on parking or access grounds."

Mr Kearney said while backland development could present problems with access, he still felt there could be no justification for refusing the proposal.

He added: "It must be remembered the building has been there for 20 years, so no objection can be raised in relation to its backland development."