Appeal Case APP/D1590/A/06/2031801

31 Grand Drive 01/02/2007

On behalf of West Leigh Residents Association I would like to inform you of our very strong objections to this scheme.

The design of the block of flats is totally inappropriate for this area of Leigh. Its futuristic style and the materials to be used would make this block incongruous and completely out of character. It would have a disastrous and brutal impact on the street scene and townscape. Very little landscaping is included in the scheme and no contribution is made to the local environment. Occupying virtually the complete width of the site the building would provide for little open space between it and the neighbouring properties and would present an unmitigating facade to the street.

The height and proximity of the block would be detrimental to the amenities of those living in the neighbouring properties, particularly those to the rear (north) of the site; it would cause over-shadowing, loss of view and actual and perceived loss of privacy to these neighbours.

Grand Drive is a busy road and, as it serves as one of the main routes to and from Southend, it is relatively narrow. The additional cars would, on entering and leaving the site, exacerbate an already dangerous situation.

The number of car parking spaces provided for the block is inadequate for location already suffering from parking stress.

The amount of amenity space provided is less than would be expected for a block of this size.

For these reasons we ask you to support our local Councillors and refuse this appeal.

Yours, Eddie Cornish, Chairman West Leigh Residents Association