Setback for developer as plans are kicked out (From Echo)

Setback for developer as plans are kicked out

4:48pm Wednesday 4th October 2006 in News By Jon Austin

The developer behind plans for 84 luxury flats hoped to kickstart the Wickford town centre masterplan has launched an appeal after council bosses refused the proposals.

Basildon Council refused a planning application from developer Butie for the five-storey tower block, shops and restaurants on car yards in Runwell Road in August after five out of eight councillors on the development control committee said no to the scheme.

Councillors had branded the proposals monstrous before moving to reject them.

The plans were ditched on grounds they would cause harm to the area, overlook other properties, cause noise and disturbance and traffic danger or congestion.

However, Butie claims it has addressed these concerns and wants to challenge their decision at a planning inquiry to be held in the Basildon Centre.

The firm has also already agreed to donate £140,000 towards improvements at the nearby Patmore Memorial Sports Ground, £10,000 towards local Scout groups, £150,000 to improve the junction with Swan Lane and Runwell Road and £650,000 for affordable homes elsewhere in the district.

A date for the hearing is still to be set.