MORE than 20 new sheltered housing apartments could be built in Benfleet if plans are given the go-ahead.

Renown Developments has submitted proposals to build a sheltered housing development consisting of 23 apartments at 19-27 Kents Hill Road.

The site will aim to provide accommodation for residents, aged 50 or older, who may be vulnerable or in need of additional support.

The application will also see the demolition of an existing office and warehouse, while creating space for associated parking, refuse and cycle storage and landscaping.

The brownfield site is occupied by a Seventies style, two storey office building, and the developers say that the building has “no architectural merit and detracts from the street scene” along Kents Hill Road.

Behind the office building is a large industrial warehouse.

With the proposed development aimed at the elderly, it is situated with easy access to facilities, services and recreation parks.

The site is just behind the retail parade along the high street.

The design and access statement read: “The proposed development will make an important contribution to the rejuvenation of the current site and immediate surrounding area, especially in relation to providing good quality residential accommodation and enhance support for local goods and services.

“The proposed development makes efficient use of a brownfield site, located within a sustainable location nearby local amenities and public transport links.

“The thrust of national and local planning policy encourages efficient use of previously developed land within sustainable locations, such as this.

“The traditional high quality design will enhance the appearance of the street frontage along Kents Hill Road and identity of the area.

“The proposal provides well-designed sheltered housing accommodation for elderly residents seeking to live within this area of Benfleet.”

To view the application in its entirety go to castlepoint.gov.uk