TOWER blocks up to 23 storeys high on the former Marks and Spencer building in Basildon town centre would be “too high”, it has been claimed.

The plans, consisting of 495 flats in Town Square, are set to be rejected at a meeting next week after planning officers advised councillors to vote against the plan.

However, developers Basildon Estates have lodged an appeal against Basildon Council’s proposed decision due to “non-determination”.

Plans were initially submitted in October 2020.

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David Dadds, the Mayor of Basildon, said: “We need developments to have the right internal space and not be extreme in height.

“This would be totally out of character for the town centre.

“We also don’t want huge tower blocks which block out the sunlight.”

The submission of an appeal follows developers Orwell also appealing thew council’s decision to reject plans for 492 flats on Market Square.

This is costing Basildon’s taxpayer £2million.

Kerry Smith, former deputy leader of Basildon Council added: “I think we’re all in agreement that this would be too high, and there isn’t enough car parking spaces, but the regulations are in favour of the developer.

“I’m not sure why the council sat on their hands and didn’t give a reason for leaving it so long.

“Now they’re dealing with another appeal, which is costing more money.”

Basildon Tories have rejected several proposals for high rise tower blocks, but approved plans for hundreds of flats in 11-storey buildings at the Great Oaks site in the town.

The Echo revealed earlier this week how plans for 233 flats in 10-storey buildings on Laindon’s car park 14 have been sent back to the drawing board.

The M&S plans include one and two bedroom flats, alongside a new cafe.

No car parking would be provided with the plans, with residents and visitors relying on existing public car parking nearby.

Just under a fifth of the flats would include balconies.

Christine Lyons, head of planning at Basildon Council, raised concerns over the “dominating impact” of the development, with plans outlining ambitions to create a “landmark” building.