PLANS to redevelop a car sales site in London Road, Leigh, with a three storey block of 14 flats and two shops is being recommended for approval despite objections from neighbours and the town council.

The development control committee will be told on Wednesday the latest plans for the Johnsons site, opposite West Leigh Schools, are considered acceptable and should be approved.

Environment director Andy Lewis said previous applications had been rejected largely because of their bulk and design.

The new scheme had been reduced in height and the design was now considered to be of a good standard.

Seven neighbours had objected to the size of the planned block and Leigh Town Council was also opposed.

The town council was concerned about a lack of car parking spaces and the impact on the surrounding homes.

Members were also worried there was not enough communal garden space.

Geoff Fulford, Leigh Town Council clerk, said: “We’re not opposed to flats as such, but there is a real worry too many are being crammed in by developers.

“We still feel there is still too much on the site, but at least it has been reduced from the original proposal.

“Often, we are finding our valid objections, backed up by Southend Council, are being ignored by Government inspectors when it comes to an appeal.

“We want a development in character with Leigh.”