Flats plan for former car showroom site (From Brentwood Weekly News)

Flats plan for former car showroom site

7:00am Saturday 25th August 2012 in Local news

A RUNdown former car showroom could be turned into 51 retirement apartments.

A planning application for the former Toomey’s site, in Ingrave Road, Brentwood, has been scaled back and resubmitted to Brentwood Council.

Developer Laindon Holdings has returned with a second proposal for the site, which has caused a headache for residents since it became vacant in 2008.

In 2010 a plan for 61 apartments was refused because of concerns about the size of the development and also that the pavement would have been widened and the road narrowed.

An appeal from the developer was dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate and the new scheme has sought to address the issues raised.

Julie Morrissey, Brentwood South councillor, said: “The scheme has been greatly reduced and the developer has made a massive effort.

“It held a consultation where it laid on teas and cakes and had plenty of people on hand to answer questions, which really engaged residents. That’s pretty much unheard of and was quite impressive.

“I have spoken to a number of residents and they are happy with it.

“The site has been an eyesore in recent years, so it will be great to have it put to use.”

The boarded-up showroom and forecourt has been vandalised and subject to graffiti in the past and was home at one time to rough sleepers.

The new appplication is for 23 one-bedroom properties and 28 two-bedroom units.

The proposal includes a large area of private amenity space at the back.

It will have 39 basement car parking spaces, internal communal areas and laundry and storage facilities.

A decision is expected by the second week in October.