A NEW block of flats and a shop could replace a car yard in Leigh.

A planning application has been submitted to Southend Council for 16 new flats in London Road to replace London Road Motors, between Kingswood Chase and Tankerville Drive.

It proposes to demolish the firm, which provides servicing and repairs, and replace it with a three-storey building comprising of 16 flats and a ground floor retail unit.

The flats would range from one to three bedroom, with some including balconies.

Neil Tyler, 31, who lives in Leigh, has concerns. He said: “I know we need more housing, and Leigh is a desirable place to live. But it is almost impossible to park in Leigh, and there are so many developments that I worry that parking will become an even bigger problem.”

The planning statement insists the new development would have many benefits.

Talking about the site, it said: “The application will bring about substantial investment into the site and with it significant benefits to the local economy through significant enhancement of the environment, amenity and condition of the local area.

“The proposal will provide employment generating floorspace through provision of a new commercial unit on site.

“The commercial unit will provide well designed active street frontage on this prominent commercial/retail centre on London Road.”

According to the application, the development would add to the town centre vitality, and increase safety through natural surveillance because of the constant comings and goings.

However Leigh town councillor, Caroline Parker, isn’t happy.

She said: “I am totally opposed to yet more flats in Leigh.

“They are turning London Road into a corridor with all these buildings.

“The majority of flats are 75 per cent the price of a house - they are not cheap or affordable.

“Poor young people cant afford a flat, never mind a house.

“The infrastructure also can’t cope. Leigh Road is always chocka block for instance.” Southend Council councillors are due to decide on the application at a meeting next Wednesday.