PLANS have returned to flatten a block of garage and turn them into five new homes.

Carolyn Quirk, a Billericay developer is looking to build the properties as part of a private court in Market Avenue, in Wickford.

It comes as Mrs Quirk’s application in 2015 for six homes was refused by Basildon Council, and subsequently dismissed on appeal by a government inspector.

Planning officers at the council have recommended the plans for approval, believing the developer has overcome concerns about overdevelopment, noise and congestion concerns.

Stuart Spears, principal planning officer at the council, said: “The amendments made to the current planning application compared to the 2015 scheme are considered to have satisfactorily overcome the original objections to the scheme.

“The layout of the site, scale of buildings and window positioning mitigates the impact of the scheme on neighbours. The design and scale of the proposed development is considered appropriate for the town centre location.”

A final decision on the plans will be made on Tuesday, March 7 at Basildon Council's planning committee meeting.