A DETACHED home in Grays is set to be demolished and replaced with a larger property after Thurrock councillors approved plans despite strong opposition from neighbours reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
The application for Namashkar, Meesons Lane, sought permission to replace the existing two-storey, four-bedroom house and garage with a three-storey, five-bedroom dwelling featuring a single-storey basement and a detached car port.
Plans also include a low-level garden wall around the front boundary.
The proposal, recommended for approval by planning officers, attracted 28 written representations, raising concerns about the scale of the development, its impact on the character of the area, and potential future use of a gym and wrestling ring.
Other objections cited construction traffic, damage to the private road, ecology impacts, and access issues for nearby care homes.
Speaking at a planning commettee meeting, neighbour Dr Ann Richards said:
“The scale of this is unprecedented. We object to the destruction of a well-built, aesthetically pleasing house for the purpose of excavating a basement. The replacement dwelling will be taller and more extensive, disrupting the street scene, creating shadow and overlooking neighbouring homes. We are also concerned about noise and vibration from the proposed gym and wrestling ring.”
Labour councillor Valerie Morris-Cook echoed concerns, arguing the new building would be “glaringly out of place” compared to adjacent homes designed to maintain space and views. She also raised highway safety issues on Meesons Lane, a single-track road.
Planning officers defended the scheme, stating: “The proposals would be considered acceptable in terms of design, character and appearance, and there would be no unacceptable impact upon neighbour amenity, highways safety or ecology, subject to relevant conditions.”
Despite objections, the committee voted in favour of the application, with only one councillor, Russell Cherry, opposing it.
Following the decision, campaigners expressed disappointment, warning the development could set a precedent for larger, more intrusive builds in the area.
