THURROCK planning councillors will get the chance to review their decision to refuse planning permission for five apartment block buildings in South Ockendon.

The scheme, which will create 38 new homes, was recommended for approval by planning officers at the last meeting of the council's planning committee.

However, planning councillors overrode their objections and, by a majority of five to three, rejected the scheme.

The land, immediately to the south of South Ockendon rail station, is adjacent to Tamarisk Road and building on it was opposed locally, including by members of the Flowers Estate Residents Association who were concerned about a number of issues, including parking.

It was formerly railway sidings and was described by planning officers as 'scrubland' as they recommended the scheme.

However, a majority of members said the proposed plan, which took two years to get to stage of being presented to councillors, was not in keeping with the local area and felt that parking would be an issue.

It was further said that the overall design of the development was not in keeping with the current street scene or the character of the Flowers Estate.

The lack of affordable housing and the level of contribution towards local healthcare was also discussed. Members considered the level of healthcare contribution was too low.

Because the advice of officers was ignored, the matter has to come back to the committee for a second 'reading' and it comes up at Thursday's (17 August) meeting.

At the previous meeting the plan was backed by Cllrs Tom Kelly (Chair), Adam Carter and Steve Liddiard, while those opposed were Cllrs Georgette Polley (Vice-Chair), Paul Arnold, Jacqui Maney, Sue Shinnick and Lee Watson.