PLANS to build a new block of flats have been given the green light despite concerns about parking.

Developers have been given the go-ahead to build a three-storey building in Station Approach, Braintree, which will contain the 14 apartments.

The town centre land was used by The Essex Board and Timber Company which was based at the site until it closed down in November 2016 after 35 years.

Its building was demolished and the land has been sitting empty ever since, but the decision by Braintree Council planning officers to grant permission to build the flats will change that.

Objections were submitted by neighbours over concerns about car parking, with one stating the proposed eight car parking spots would not be adequate for the up to 30 people who could be living in the collection of one and two bed flats.

The objector wrote: "This area is in close proximity to Braintree train station. Parking in the area is already problematic with individuals parking in residential areas whilst they commute to London.

"It is reasonable to assume that the plans submitted if passed would add further to this problem. The disproportionate amount of parking for the residents will cause further problems for the surrounding properties and streets."

Another added: "Parking is already problematic given the high population of dwellings as well as the location being so close to town's train station.

"The proximity of the proposed building will also be to the detriment of neighbours' property values and quality of life as outlook and light are reduced."

However, consultee Essex Highways said the amount of car parking spaces set to be included is acceptable due to the site's town centre location and access to other modes of transport.

Each flat will also be given a travel pack containing six travel vouchers for local transport which will be produced by the developer - North Avenue Development Company.

Highways says the packs are a standard requirement for all new developments across Essex to inform new residents of local options for all forms of sustainable transport and promote their use as an alternative to a private motor vehicle and are not a condition for backing the application.

A Highways spokesman said: "The sample travel vouchers are required as part of the travel packs.

"The idea behind this is to encourage residents to travel by more sustainable, or environmentally friendly forms of transport, for example by bus.

"Evidence suggests that once people have seen that getting a bus for example is practical, they are more likely to continue to use buses.”