A DEVELOPER has launched a third attempt to build flats on an historic plot in a conservation area.

An application has been registered with Redbridge Council to build 14 flats on the site of 581-587 High Road, Woodford Green.

Residents rejoiced in September last year when an application to knock down four houses, on the site of suffragette Sylvia Pankurst's former cottage, and replace them with a block of 14 flats was rejected by Redbridge Council.

Yasfind Ltd has lodged another application, the third in four years. A plan for 19 flats was also dismissed by the council in June 2006.

The developer believes the latest proposal addresses earlier grounds for refusal.

The amount of parking space has been scaled back to 18 car spaces and 14 bicycle spaces, compared with space for 30 cars in the previous application.

There is also a change to the shape of the proposed buildings in order to help protect privacy of neighbours.

Finally the developer told the Guardian there would be a slight increase in funds being offered to the council to offset the costs of providing new infrastructure.

Campaigners have opposed the development in the past and presented a petition to the council.

They believe the site is of public interest given its history and the development would have a negative impact, also adversely affecting neighbouring properties.

Mario Grattarola, whose home in Mews Place backs on to the site, has been one of the lead campaigners. He told the Guardian residents would be keen to have their say again when the application reaches the council's planning committee.

The council will make a decision within the next three weeks.