A couple's plans to demolish their house to make way for ten flats were today condemned by their neighbours and an action group.

Mark and Gill Johnson, of Chalkwell Park Drive, Leigh, have lived in the house for 12 years but plan to move when Mr Johnson takes early retirement, freeing the site for development.

Matt Bond, of nearby Leigham Court Drive, is so outraged he has distributed 100 letters to residents urging them to oppose the plans.

Mr Bond, whose house overlooks the Johnsons' garden, said: "It's an oasis with a lot of green. It's a lovely plot and a lovely house.

"People around them are absolutely horrified. The flats will be overlooking everything and will devalue property around here."

Mrs Johnson said: "We've spoken to our neighbours and let them know our plans. It's between us and our neighbours."

More in today's Evening Echo