A GARDEN centre is on the market ahead of plans to demolish the buildings and build 16 new homes in its place. 

The Fairway Garden Centre, in Hullbridge Road, Rayleigh is still operating but plans have been agreed for it to be replaced with a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes. 

However, Rochford Lib Dem councillor James Newport fears the closure of the garden centre will be a “real loss to the local economy”. 

Plans to develop the site proved controversial and were thrown out by Rochford Council because of the loss of business, design of the homes and a lack of affordable housing. 

The developer, Kent Property Investments, then lodged an appeal with the Government and the plans were approved in 2019. 

Mr Newport, who represents the Downhall and Rawreth ward, said: “It would be a blow to a lot of the small businesses that operate from there.

“We do have a lack of space for small businesses in the district, so this would be a real loss to the local economy.”

Echo: James Newport says the homes do not meet Rochford's housing need.James Newport says the homes do not meet Rochford's housing need. (Image: NQ)

Mr Newport also feels the plans are not suitable for the site, due to its location, and says it will not help ease the need for housing.

He said: “To me, it’s the wrong type of development in the wrong place.

“We have got a housing shortage. These large houses are not the type we urgently need.

“We are in desperate need of smaller, more affordable houses for people to get onto the property ladder and for younger people to leave home.

“I don’t think it meets our housing needs.”

The location of the new homes will mean prospective tenants will need to drive to Rayleigh town centre, four kilometres away, Mr Newport says.

He said: “It’s not an ideal site for housing, as it’s away from local amenities. 

Anyone who lives there is just going to jump in the car.”

The plot of land is roughly 2.8 acres – the side of a one and a half football pitches and each of the two-storey homes would have two parking spaces. 

Four guest parking spaces are also included. 

The site is being sold by Ayers & Cruiks, however the firm has not revealed a price online. 

The site is now up for sale on Rightmove: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/136474733#/