THE FUTURE of a plan to build a large block of flats, which has been met with fierce local opposition, will be decided next week.

Council officers have recommended the approval of a scheme to demolish four houses in Kings Head Hill, Chingford, and build 45 flats.

But many people living nearby, including residents of sheltered housing next to the site, are opposed to the scheme.

Three petitions calling for the four-storey development to be blocked have been signed by a total 159 people.

The planning application, submitted by L&C Housing and Family Mosaic Housing, will be considered by the planning committee on Tuesday (November 3) following a request by Conservative councilors Andy Hemsted and Michael Lewis.

Cllr Hemsted believes the scheme constitutes an over-development of the site.

Council officers admit the proposed development is above the “appropriate density” set out in local planning guidelines, but refer to other guidelines which encourage flexibility when it is believed the application does not compromise local amenities or the general character of the area.

But petitions opposing the scheme say the building is too tall, poorly designed and is out of keeping with the area.

This will lead to a loss of privacy and daylight, and increased noise and pollution, it is claimed.

There is also concern about the ability of local amenities to cope and council planners admit schools in the catchment area could not accomodate children who move into the proposed flats.

Planners have imposed a number of conditions on the developmers, if it goes ahead.

These include a £103,000 contribution to creating new school places, £25,000 towards local health services and £25,000 for helping to improve the local environment.

The development will also have to include 23 affordable homes.