OFFICES opposite a park are set to be demolished to make way for a possible shop and nine new flats.

Developers have revealed they are looking to pull down the offices and W J Wood tyre fitters in London Road, Westcliff to make way for the family housing over three floors.

There will also be new commercial space on the ground floor.

It has not been revealed whether the space will be a shop or restaurant at this stage.

The proposals, if given the go-ahead, will also include nine car parking spaces, a bike store and balconies for the apartments.

Documents submitted during the planning process have admitted the apartments will be visible from the opposite Chalkwell Park.

However, the developer has said the building will be “positive” for the area.

A design and impact statement for the development said: “This development is to provide nine residential dwellings at 841-843 London Road.

“The proposals put forward provide an opportunity to introduce a number of sustainable residential dwellings on a previously underdeveloped site.

“The proposals look to maximise the development potential of the application site, providing new family housing within Southend.

“By providing residential accommodation on existing, underdeveloped land it reduces the impact on the metropolitan greenbelt area and maximises land use in sustainable locations.

“The site follows the principle of the previously approved outline application.

“Internal layouts have been updated to take into account policy changes and the recent introduction of national space standards.

“The proposed development seeks to deliver quality family housing with adequate parking and amenity space to provide a high living standard.

“It is believed the current proposal will provide a positive contribution to London Road.

“It will be keeping with the existing street scene.”

However Southend Council will have the final say on the plans, with a decision set to be made in the coming weeks before the summer.