“OBSCENE” plans to build flats in a conservation area are due to be discussed at a meeting tomorrow.

Maldon District Council is set to rule on controversial proposals for 28 homes, including a conversion of the Friary East grounds in Carmelite Way.

The Grade II listed building, owned by Essex County Council, would be converted into to seven flats and its 1960s extension turned into two townhouses.

More construction would include two buildings within the grounds to the south, comprising 19 apartments with additional parking.

The proposal is recommended for refusal.

Maldon Society chairman Judith Lea expressed her objection to the plans and branded the proposal “obscene”.

Mrs Lea said: “As far as I’m concerned, this is the most important decision on housing on a listed building in a conservation area that I’ve seen.

“The county council has neglected this site for years.

“Both the conservation officer and urban development officer have both expressed their recommendations to not go ahead.

“They are both highly respected officers in their field, so their considered views are also well respected.

“The repercussions of going against their views will be quite serious indeed.

“I hope the council will be responsible enough to turn it down.

“The site has extremely difficult access so to deliver materials, they would have to come through White Horse car park.

“The disruptions would be significant.

“It is obscene that this plan is being considered.

“There is no need for development, full stop.”

Friary East was built in the early 19th century and was a private residence until it was bought by Essex County Council in 1946 and is used for adult education services.

The building was listed in 1971.

The district council report said: “It is considered that the proposal is unacceptable overall as there is not an acceptable scheme for the replacement of the existing structures.

“This would therefore leave a void area that could detract from the existing building.”

Members of the public are encouraged to attend the meeting at the council offices on Wednesday evening.