PROPOSALS to convert an underused Basildon office block into 50 flats will not provide any extra town centre parking spaces.

A planning application to convert Kelting House, which adjoins the Eastgate Shopping Centre, has been submitted to Basildon Council.

But council leader Phil Turner fears the submission is an “opportunistic” move by developers which may not be viable in the long-term.

Relaxed planning laws make it easier for developers to gain approval to convert disused commercial properties to residential use.

It means the council can only object to the application based on transport impact, contamination, or flood risk.

The site, in Southernhay, only has 23 parking spaces and the proposals do not include any extra spaces.

Mr Turner said: “What worries me is, while this might be opportunistic for developers, I have to live with the legacy of it.

“They might make their profit, but if it is not viable, or sustainable, we pick up the social issues.

“If there is only parking for half of the flats, you start to wonder if it is acceptable.”

Mr Turner believes the block could be used to meet social housing needs from outside the area.

He added: “Are we going to see an influx from London boroughs of people who have their own social problems and issues?”

Insurance provider LV employs 70 people at its offices on the sixth floor of the sevenstorey building.

Planning agent Amy Jones said: “The proposal provides an opportunity to bring this building, which is largely vacant, back into beneficial use, providing new homes in a sustainable and accessible location.

“The proposals will support the role and function of Basildon town centre, particularly the proposed extension and improvement works at Eastgate and future regeneration in the town centre.”

The proposals, submitted by Infrared Capital Partners, would see 25 one-bedroom and 25 twobedroom flats created.

A public consultation period will run until June 12.

Proposal to double Wickford project in size

A PROJECT to build flats on the site of an estate agent in Wickford, could double in size if developers get planning approval.

Permission has already been granted for ten flats to be built in The Broadway, on a site currently occupied by Temme English estate agents.

But a new application, lodged this month seeks permission for 21 flats inafive-storey building, with ground floor retail units included.

Permissions for ten flats on the site was originally granted in 2006, but building work has not taken place.

A statement by designer LAP Architects said: “The building will help contribute to Wickford’s housing need for both private and affordable properties.

“The proposal provides a landmark building in a prominent location.”

The site also includes a taxi office and several unused older buildings.

Members of the Wickford Action Group Facebook page have already voiced their disapproval at the proposals.

Members have branded them “horrid”, “dreadful” and “out of character”.

A public consultation period on the application comes to an end on June 12.