A DEVELOPER’S hopes of converting an office block into ten flats have received a blow after village leaders voted against the plans.

Ramsey and Parkeston Parish Council has refused plans to change the use of Parkeston House, in Adelaide Street, Parkeston, from business to residential use.

Parish councillors say the area is in desperate need of new business and must maintain its commercial properties.

However, the property’s owner said there was no demand for the offices – the majority of which have stood empty since 2003.

Tendring Council has the final say over the plans. If the application gets the go-ahead, the offices will be converted into ten two-bedroom flats.