PLANS to replace two detached houses with a block of 14 flats have concerned neighbours in a quiet cul-de-sac.

Michael Johnson's latest proposal to demolish 113 and 115 Grange Crescent, in Chigwell, has attracted 20 objections from other homeowners in the road concerned it could set a precedent.

The application is a revised version of a previous one which sought to put up 23 flats and was rejected last year.

Stan Posner, 72, of Grange Crescent said: “I know they've reduced it but it's totally inappropriate for this road. You don't put flats in the middle of a residential road overlooking everyone's houses and gardens. The whole of the road here is houses and they want flats.

“They've already built six blocks of flats on Manor Road between here and Hainault Road. The way things are going the whole of the country will be built over.

“What they should do is make the two houses into one, or turn them into maisonettes. I wouldn't object to that.”

Mr Johnson's last application was opposed by Chigwell Parish Council but his latest one is supported by it on the grounds it offers less traffic congestion and overlooking.

Lee Taylor, 39, of Grange Crescent, said: “I'm really surprised the parish council back it. The proposal is a bit better because there's less flats but we are still worried about flats going up in such a small crescent. There's issues with noise and overlooking gardens.

“We are all houses here and we're a bit worried at idea of flats going up in our back garden. It'll set a precedent.”

Mr Johnson has been asked to comment. If successful he will have to pay £23,913 for education improvements and will be asked to finance highway improvements.

A final decision on the application will be made next Wednesday, May 26, at the district council's planning meeting to be held at Roding Valley High School, Alderton Hill, Loughton at 7.30pm.