NEW homes look set to be built on the site of a disused pumping station despite opposition from neighbours.

Planning officers have recommended Southend Council approve draft plans to replace the defunct pumping station in Rayleigh Road, Eastwood, with houses next Wednesday, despite 16 letters of objection from neighbours.

The outline plans do not specify the number of houses, but officers have said two homes could be acceptable.

The council has refused plans to build bungalows on the site three times since 1993.