A SUBMISSION for technical consent to build eight new homes and an office block in Thurrock has been rejected after the applicant was informed his proposal had "significant inconsistencies."

Previously council officers had given agreement in principle to the development on land adjacent to Adstock Way and Hogg Lane in Grays. That decision was made in January 2024.

However, a technical consent application lodged with the council in March this year has not met with the same approval.

Officers have rejected the application saying the proposed development would introduce an overly urban and visually intrusive form of development into an area defined by its open, wooded and transitional character.

A report adds: "The elevated position and four storey form would appear prominent and overbearing, eroding the sylvan qualities that characterise this part of Hogg Lane.

"The proposal would fail to respect the established pattern of surrounding commercial and residential development and would appear isolated, incongruous and harmful when viewed from public vantage points along Hogg Lane.

"The development would therefore result in unacceptable harm to the character and appearance of the area."

How the site was planned - with council officers offering original approval.

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Officers added: "The planning authority is unable to conclude that the development would not result in an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the free flow of traffic along this strategic route.

"Taken together, these omissions represent fundamental shortcomings that prevent establishment whether the development can be delivered without harm to highway safety or operational efficiency."

Before the application outcome was announced eight residents shared their objections on the proposals.

One said: "The proposed development will negatively impact the character of the Badgers Dene area. I moved to this area in part due to its secluded, natural environment, which I feel will be significantly degraded by the proposed development.

"I expect that myself and my neighbours will experience a higher level of disturbance and nuisance behaviour if this development progresses."