The Development Control Committee of Southend-on-Sea Council met on Wednesday 26 June 2024 to discuss various planning applications and enforcement actions. Key decisions and discussions are summarised below:

London Road Development

The committee approved the demolition of an existing building on London Road and the erection of a new development comprising 14 flats and a commercial unit at the front, and 11 flats at the rear. The decision was based on the need for additional housing and the proposal's compliance with planning policies. Concerns about parking and traffic were addressed with a proposed traffic light system and adequate parking provisions.

Assisted Living Accommodation on Station Road

Planning permission was granted for the change of use of a building on Station Road to assisted living accommodation for individuals with learning disabilities or on the autism spectrum. The proposal includes five bedrooms and a separate three-bedroom dwelling. The committee found the development acceptable in terms of design, impact on the character of the area, and residential amenity.

3A West Street Redevelopment

The committee approved the conversion and alteration of a building at 3A West Street from five cramped flats to four high-quality flats and a ground-floor commercial unit. The decision was made considering the improved standard of accommodation and the positive impact on the character of the area.

135 Marine Parade New Build

A new build at 135 Marine Parade was approved, replacing an existing building with a contemporary design. The committee considered the design acceptable and in keeping with the character of the area, despite concerns about the loss of the existing building.

Bradfordbury Housing Development

The committee approved the demolition of garages on Bradfordbury and the construction of two highly sustainable, affordable houses. The decision was made despite objections regarding the loss of parking and the eviction of garage tenants. The committee found the proposal beneficial in addressing the housing need in the city.

6 The Gables Retrospective Application

A retrospective application for a single-story rear extension at 6 The Gables was refused due to its overbearing impact on the neighbouring property at 5 The Gables. The committee authorised enforcement action to address the breach of planning control.

Cantile Medical Site Affordable Housing

The committee approved a modification to the Section 106 agreement for the Cantile Medical site, allowing all 21 affordable housing units to be delivered as intermediate tenure. This decision was made to facilitate a contract with Rent Plus, the only viable offer for the affordable housing units.

67 West Road Enforcement Action

The committee authorised enforcement action against the unauthorised conversion of a shop at 67 West Road into a dwelling. The change of use was found to harm the character and function of the primary shopping frontage.

1A Marine Parade Enforcement Action

Enforcement action was authorised for the removal of an oversized fascia box at 1A Marine Parade, which was found to harm the character of the Clifton Conservation Area.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Supplementary Report.