Proposals to demolish a family home and replace it with flats would "decimate" an historic lane.

At an Epping Town Council meeting on Tuesday (July 1) committee members outlined their strong objections to plans for nine two-bedroom apartments earmarked for Buttercross Lane in Epping.

Developer Patrick Flanagan has requested permission to raze the house and build a three storey block in its place, alongside parking for nine cars.

A statement released by the council after the meeting read: "This proposal will have a dramatic and negative effect on the conservation area.

"The proposal is a vast overdevelopment of the site in terms of density and height, having three storeys, which would result in an overly dominant and irreversible effect on the street scene.

"The proposal would decimate the street scene of this historic lane and the character of the road would be lost.

"The whole development does not fit within this part of the conservation area."

The councillors also raised concerns about increased levels of traffic and rubbish.

The statement continues: "The committee object to the loss of this large family house, which are as necessary as flats and do not feel this is a suitable location.

"A mix of dwelling types is required and removing large, family homes does not contribute to this objective.

"Constantly granting permission for flats at the expense of good quality family homes, will adversely affect the mix of dwelling types available in the town and alter the core character of this historic lane."

The town council's views will be taken into consideration when district councillors decide the proposal's fate.

To see the full plans, enter EPF/1583/18 on the district council's planning portal.

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