A RETIREMENT home developer is altering its plans to build new flats on a derelict dairy site in Southend.

McCarthy and Stone Retirement Lifestyles has already got permission to build 35 retirement flats on the former Dairy Crest site, in Southchurch Boulevard.

However, the developer has since submitted amendments to alter the mix of apartments.

The plans were only passed after a Government planning inspector intervened amid complaints from residents in Droitwich Avenue and Castleton Road.

Residents received a letter on May 20 from the council informing them of the amendment and they have until tomorrow to register their comments.

Sally Harrison, 39, of Droitwich Avenue, said: “We have all written letters to the council to complain.

“If they get one amendment then they will probably get more.”

A spokesman for the developer said: “We have sought to revise our previously approved plans in order to change the mix of apartments.

“In response to comments received from residents of Droitwich Avenue, the team is confident their amenity has been respected, and has previously been safeguarded through the planning process.”