DEVELOPERS who previously did not demonstrate plans to build a block of flats in Basildon town centre were safe from flooding are back with a new version of the scheme.

Basildon Borough Council recommended an ongoing appeal over the nine flats in Southernhay be refused, criticising them as "unattractive" and claiming they failed to demonstrate a risk of flooding could be mitigated.

But an updated planning application by Mr R Hopkins was validated by Basildon Borough Council on 13 February, which also includes space for a shop in the ground floor.

According to the statement, the proposed height has been reduced to four storeys and a flood risk assessment demonstrating the risk of flooding is low has been conducted.

A section reads: "Owing to the lack of a five-year housing supply and the potential of development on a vacant urban site which will positively contribute to the regeneration of the town centre and provide much needed housing the development is considered acceptable."

According to the statement, the original application was not determined and the developers are appealing on the grounds of non-determination.

The council recommended the scheme be refused partly because it would have a detrimental visual impact and be harmful to the character of the area.

A section read: "The proposed development is unattractive as a result of poor architecture, layout and appropriate and effective landscaping, creating a poor-quality living environment for future residents.

"The articulation of the building with the main elevation being north facing creates poor levels of sunlight and daylight for the proposed residential units or to the adjoining existing commercial units."

The council's reasons for refusal also said the site is in a critical drainage area, yet failed to demonstrate on or off site flooding would be adequately mitigated. It was also criticised for its lack of affordable housing or contributions to local education or healthcare.

In the updated plans, the width, depth and height of the building has been reduced and a sunlight and daylight report has been submitted. The building has also been set back from the road by 0.5m.

The updated planning application can be found via this link.