A BID has been launched for 14 new flats right in the centre of Canvey.

RD Architecture wants to build a four-storey block of 14 flats on Canvey High Street on the site of the former Euronics Tower Radio electricals store.

The application would see four flats built on the ground floor along with a cycle storage area, external car parking spaces and a refuse store, with the other ten flats spread over the three upper floors.

There would only be access to the flats from the side and rear of the development to reduce the level of street traffic on the High Street.

The car parking area would also see a number of trees planted, with several trees also being planted in front of the development on the High Street along with a grass area.

In the design statement, Maz Rahman, of RD Architecture, said: “The development will have more positive impact on the character and appearance than the existing building, street scene or the wider area.

“The appearance is that of a contemporary mix of brick, render and roof tiles.

“The existing site is in most part dilapidated, underused and with vegetation and weeds growing through the concrete surface at the rear. There are no trees on site.

“The applicant and owner of the site is keen to improve the existing site and has made arrangements to deliver the project if approved.

“It will allow the council to facilitate improvements to the current aesthetics of the site as well as providing short term local employment as well as new quality housing.”

Mr Rahman added that the introduction of new flats could also create employment opportunities through maintenance and cleaning.

Alan Acott, deputy mayor of Canvey, said the introduction of new flats could free up other houses in the region.

He said: “One of the positive aspects of bringing in a new development of flats is that it potentially provides an opportunity for people looking to downsize.

“This means if they want to move into the smaller flat, a bigger house could come on the market, which could then be bought by local residents.

“We know the demand is high for housing, and the government’s guidelines is for new flats and developments to be on main roads with good transport links such as buses, and the high street has that.”

The application will be decided by Castle Point Council’s planning committee at a later date.