APPROVAL has been given for two new residential developments in the centre of Stanford-le-Hope reports the Thurrock Enquirer.
The two sites are close together on King Street and Southend Road and between them will create 31 new flats.
Concern was expressed by members of Thurrock Council’s planning committee about the scale of the two developments and the lack of amenity spaces that comes with them but both were given the green light by a significant majority.
One development, on the site of Archway House at 43 King Street, will consist of ten two bedroom and four one bedroom apartments, while the other, on the site of Albion House, Stanford Road, involves building two new blocks of homes consisting of seven one bedroom and ten two bedroom flats.
While concern was expressed about the height and design of both sides, councillors welcomed the fact that they would both contribute to improving a ‘dilapidated’ area of
the town.
Cllr Steve Veryard said: “It’s a good step in the right direction for Stanford-le-Hope,” while Cllr Phil Anderson said: “I’m cautiously impressed with what I’ve seen as at present this area looks dilapidated and drags down the whole town centre. I am also aware of anti-social behaviour in the area currently and were these developments to create more open spaces and amenity areas that might increase problems so I can live with the lack of amenity space if it means a reduction of anti-social behaviour in this area. ”
Cllr Barry Palmer led concern over the size of the developments and questioned the impact the influx of residents would have in a small area and whether there was enough amenity space to cope.
He said: “Are we satisfied that amenity space is adequate? There are already shortfalls in amenity space and we are already making big mistakes by allowing so many developments in that area.”
He also expressed concern over the height of the developments, saying they were “very imposing.”
Committee chairman and local ward councillor Terry Hipsey summed up by saying: “I’m somewhat saddened by the state of the area, it’s fallen into a state of disrepair with burnt out and dilapidated buildings. Though I share some of Cllr Palmer’s concerns, I do welcome these developments.”
I would have thought the easiest way to settle this would be a public consultation with the people it affects. The residents of Stanford should be asked what they want!
Red Rebel now you must be living in a fantasy land if you ever expect TBC to ask the poeple who would be directly affected by these buildings what they think 🙂