PLANS for a former hotel are causing concern for neighbouring residents.

Permission has already been granted to convert the vacant Hertford House Hotel in Park Way, Clacton, into a residential care home for 16 residents over 55.

Now, applicants Empire Lettings have asked Tendring Council if the capacity can be increased to 22 - and officers have recommended approval.

While no objections were received to the first application, 17 letters of protest have been received to the resubmitted plans, including one from ward councillor Chris Griffiths.

Amongst other issues, they are concerned that there is insufficient amenity space, that nearby properties will be overlooked and that it will cause traffic problems.

But planning officers do not believe that this application is materially different to that which has already been approved.

A report states: "Although the previous application stated 16 residents in its description, no condition was imposed restricting the numbers to 16."

It adds that the current amenity space is satisfactory for older residents, while a condition is attached to the approval that new windows would have to be installed to stop any potential overlooking.

It states: "A care home would generate traffic activity patterns more compatible with this residential area than a hotel, and as such presents a reduced impact upon residential amenity."