PLANS to build 12 flats in a busy south Essex road have been recommended for refusal.

Anthony King, of Crown Road in Billericay, applied to Basildon Council to build 11 two bedroom flats and a one bedroom flat in Noak Hill Road, Billericay.

However, ahead of a planning meeting at the council on Tuesday, January 10, officers have recommended the plans be refused.

Gordon Humphries, a council planning officer, described the design as over-dominant and that it fails to contribute towards the council’s affordable housing need.

He said: “The redevelopment of the site in the form of a more intensive flatted scheme is considered acceptable in principle.

“However, the proposal would not satisfy the council’s affordable housing requirements, and no viability assessment has been provided for assessment to justify a shortfall in this regard.

“The development would also be of a bulk and scale that relates poorly with its surroundings and appear out of keeping with the character of the area.”

Mr Humphries continued: “The large size and scale of building proposed, with rear car park, would appear out of character.

“It would have a detrimental impact upon the amenities enjoyed by neighbouring residential occupiers.”

A final decision on the plans will be made by the council’s planning committee at next Tuesday’s meeting