A developer has unveiled new images of how a landmark Southend building could look in the near future as a bid to transform it into more than 500 flats have been submitted.
Comer Homes, has submitted detailed plans to Southend Council for the re-development of Alexander House in Victoria Avenue, which is an old HMRC office block.
The planning application outlines plans to transform the site into 557 self-contained flats along with commercial units, as well as significant landscaping improvements.
The existing car parking facility to the rear would be demolished and cleared for re-development with 299 new parking spaces proposed across the basement and ground floor levels in the northern half of the site.
It aims to completely modernise and transform the site opposite Southend Victoria railway station into a "bright new gateway into Southend".
The building itself will include five distinct areas which are the East Pavilion, West City, East Street, West Pavilion, and East City blocks.
Commenting on the plans, Brian Comer, co-founder of Comer Homes, said: “We have taken our time to shape the plans to deliver the best possible scheme that will bring this site back to life, whilst respecting the heritage and character of the area.
“Despite becoming an eyesore in recent years, we believe the site has real potential and with these updates it will be the final piece to complete Victoria Avenue.”
This major re-development plan comes amid a number of recent bids submitted to the Southend Council to transform landmark buildings in the city.
Plans have been revealed for 27 flats at the site of the former Empire Theatre in Alexandra Street while proposals also emerged for a new 14-storey block of 58 flats on the old Churchills diner site in Tylers Avenue.
Comer Homes' formal application follows an extensive consultation period, which included a public exhibition, with Southend councillors and residents attending.
The developer says feedback from the exhibition was supportive in the majority, and was reflected on to make amends to the plans, delivering a scheme to best match the community’s needs.
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