THE former Long Riding Pub in Basildon, which has more recently been used by The Redeemed Christian Church of God as a place of worship, will be demolished for 20 flats, despite concerns from nearby residents reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
The development plans also include seven one-bedroom flats, nine two-bedroom flats and four three-bedroom homes.
Basildon Borough Council’s planning committee reviewed the proposals at a meeting on November 5. A resident who lived nearby told the meeting she has “serious concerns.”
She said she fears the impact of the development on the amount of light entering homes, as well as parking issues.
She added: “The proposal conflicts with the daylight standard, Essex design guide and the policy of the Basildon local plan, which requires development to protect daylight, privacy, parking and the amenity of existing residents.
“Proceeding with this application will demolish the church, which will take away one of the few remaining places that give this neighbourhood identity and connection.”
Under the proposals, the four ground floor flats will have garden areas, and the other 16 new flats will each have a balcony, the plans also include a shared terrace-type space with a children’s play areas.
The proposals are similar to previous plans, which were agreed upon in 2020; however, no formal legal agreement was signed. The pub closed in 2013 and was converted to the Christian Centre, according to the Campaign for Real Ale.
Councillors across the political parties told the meeting it’s “sad” to see pubs close down, but it’s a “sign of the times”. The proposals were supported by Labour, Conservative and Independent councillors at the meeting, but a Reform UK councillor spoke out against the plans and refused to back the proposals.
