A COMMUNITY is concerned about over-development and parking after plans were submitted to turn two bungalows into eight flats.

The application has been submitted by Grange Road Developments and detail plans to build the new homes in Southend Road, Hockley.

The building would be three storeys high and will include communal space and terraces and balconies for each flat.

But neighbours raised concerns about the plans prompting ward councillor Keith Hudson to refer the application to the planning committee.

Jenny Williment, who lives in nearby Gladstone Road, said: “This is gross over-development of a relatively small corner plot. It is not in keeping with the other houses and there is insufficient parking spaces available.

“The junction of Great Eastern Road and Southend Road, which makes this corner plot, is already very busy.

“Great Eastern Road is also a through road to the station, Greensward school and large residential areas.

“It’s caused traffic jams and dangerous driving conditions when cars are backed up.”

Adam Galer, who also lives in Gladstone Road, added: “There are already parking issues in the area with people leaving cars in unrestricted parking areas in Gladstone Road for days on end.

“This is only going to get worse.”

Adam Reeves, of Southend Road, said the plans do not match the surrounding areas.

He added: “The main issue is that the building will be three stories high and does not match any houses around the site. No other parking is available around the site as the two main roads are both double yellow.”

In a report produced ahead of the development control meeting at Rochford District Council next week, planning officers addressed the concerns.

They said: “A considerable level of objection has been raised to the scheme from residents relating to scale.

“However, taking account of the urban design teams’ positive comments, it is considered that at this site the proposed development would not appear out of place to the detriment of visual amenity.” The developers were contacted.