PLANS for a state-of-the art block of flats towering up to four-storeys high have been scrapped after a public backlash.

Chelmsford-based Trinity View Homes’ bid for 25 apartments in Park Chase, Hadleigh, was this week thrown out by Castle Point Council due to its overbearing size and lack of car parking spaces.

It comes as the authority mulls over a string of fresh applications for 12 more homes across the area.

Speaking about the recent rejection, one community figurehead applauded the council’s decision - but voiced fears the area is on the verge of becoming a “concrete jungle.”

Alf Papworth, chairman of the Solby Estate Residents’ Association and co-ordinator of the Neighbourhood Watch, praised the council’s decision.

He said: “We can’t have buildings popping up that are that high, the state of it would look horrible.

“I, like many others, moved to this area because of the low level houses and the space we have, and there’s a danger we’re going to become a concrete jungle.

“The association is pleased the council has listened to residents’ concerns and are trying to preserve the piece of land – we have to give credit where credit is due.”

According to Trinity View Homes’ application, the car park would have accommodated about half the number of cars as flats.

The council continues to receive developer’s proposals for new homes.

Developer Architect Interior Designers revealed plans to bulldoze Swans Green Hall, Thundersley, to make way for five four-bedroom homes.

The design and access statement reads: “The layout responds to the constraints and opportunities that this site presents to ensure the proposed plan is legible in its form, creating a good quality scheme for residents.”

Third Dimension Architects has revealed plans for six new homes, with garages, on land adjacent and rear of Forest House, in Catherine Road, Benfleet, attracting swathes of residents’ objection letters.

One resident said: “The dwellings do not fall under the category of affordable housing. They will contribute to the growing traffic problems currently experienced on Bread and Cheese Hill.”