TWO derelict factories which have become a magnet for vandals could be demolished to make way for a five-storey block of flats.

Southend Council's development control committee is being recommended to approve the proposals for the old CW Pavey factory in Sutton Road.

Vandals have smashed windows and daubed graffiti over the building. The factories on the site between Sycamore Grove and Redstock Road have been empty for years and were also damaged by fire in 2005.

In his report, environment director Andy Lewis said the design of the new flats was contemporary, which contrasts with surrounding homes built in the 1920s and 1930s.

He added there had been three letters of objections mainly concerned with overdevelopment and loss of industrial land.

Mr Lewis said: "It is recognised the site is in a state of disrepair, underused and regeneration is welcomed.

"Sutton Road is in an area of Southend which has not had any recent significant regeneration and therefore a new development of this site could act as a catalyst for further regeneration of the area.

"The proposed scheme is a contemporary design in an area which is recognised as lacking buildings of any distinct architectural quality."

The applicant, Sutton Road Properties, had amended the plans because of concerns about the height of the building.

Mr Lewis added: "While it is recognised the building will have a strong visual presence, it is considered there is now a better balance to its overall form and the massing has been diluted."

Because of the previous industrial use of the site there were concerns about land contamination and an analysis would be necessary before any work could begin.

In 2005, firefighters tackled a blaze in the old factory and were told children might be inside. However, no children were found in the search of the property.