A NEW application to build six flats and four offices in a town centre has caused fresh concern among residents.

The application is the second which the owner of the site in Chapel Street, Halstead, has submitted in less than a year.

Residents fought the last application, which was to build ten flats on the site, which currently houses F Johnson and son Heating. There are fears the new plan offers little change.

Andy Barrell, who owns the house next to the proposed development with his wife Claire, said: “I am not happy with it. It’s a lot better and it’s in keeping, but three two-bedroom flats could be 12 people, then there’s three one bedroom flats. That’s at least 18 people in the flats plus they have got four offices. We have a single track road, I am just concerned about the congestion in our street.”

David Paul, of agent Andrew Martin Associates speaking on behalf of applicant Frank Ladkin said: “The planned position is not likely to give any cause for concern in terms of loss of privacy.” He added nine parking spaces were planned.