A LANDMARK block of nine flats is set to replace a big family home destroyed in an arson attack more than six years ago.

Councillors backed plans for the new homes on a prominent site in Chalkwell Avenue, Westcliff, despite concerns over speeding and overlooking.

The old property, on the corner of Kings Road and Chalkwell Avenue, was destroyed by a deliberate fire back in January 2015.

Echo: Plans - how the homes could look Plans - how the homes could look

Southend councillors approved the plans, but a nearby resident also spoke of her concerns during a development control meeting.

She told councillors: “Chalkwell Avenue and Kings Road are renowned for speeding cars and motorcycles that go too fast around the bend without any view of the pedestrians.

“Cars exiting the homes’ site from Kings Road will cause congestion and I have seen many accidents and near misses and this will just become worse as cars accelerate around the corner.

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“There are no speed cameras at that junction which will be taken advantage of, especially on weekends and evenings which is a potential death.”

The resident also questioned whether nine parking spaces were adequate for 39 residents and visitors “in already stressed double yellow-lined streets”.

She added: “It will generate more traffic to the detriment of highways safety.

“The balconies will create overlooking problems into our garden and bedrooms.

“I am concerned about my four young daughters being observed within their private area.

“They will feel insecure and intimidated which is not acceptable and as the land is elevated and in close proximity the outlook from the flats will face directly into our garden.”

Chalkwell Conservative councillor Nigel Folkard, speaking at the meeting, feared the new building could be an overdevelopment of the site and “will entail a significant loss of green space”.

Echo: N Destroyed - the house was gutted in early morning fire N Destroyed - the house was gutted in early morning fire

He added: “There will be more additional pressure on street parking in Kings Road and Chalkwell Avenue.

“This is a very prominent site at the junction of Chalkwell Avenue and Kings Road and deserves an appropriate landmark development that is both in character with its surroundings and respects the limits of the site.”

Responding to the residents’ concerns a spokesman for the developer, Herald Build, based in Leigh, said the company had worked “very patiently” with planning officials over the proposals.

He added: “Specifically regarding highways, the access is well away from the corner, and I believe highways have commented on that, parking is policy compliant.

“In terms of overlooking or overbearing there are no windows facing directly onto the adjourning occupiers site that are close to the boundary.”