Fears of a “significant” loss of light and privacy are key concerns for residents just off Brentwood High Street as an application for new flats is due to go before councillors.

Developers have applied to demolish the rear of the property formerly occupied by Edinburgh Woollen Mill, but which has been vacant since November 2020, and to turn the space into 13 flats above a ground floor commercial property. 

But a formal objection submitted on behalf of seven households at Luke Court, in William Hunter Way, has set out the “detrimental and devastating impact” they believe the development would have. 

It says: “The proposed development would result in a significant loss of light to the neighbouring property, with more than half the relevant windows and almost half the relevant rooms falling below 0.8 of their former values.

“Furthermore, there would be a loss of privacy as a result of the public stairwell windows and large glazed link and a significant detrimental visual impact and overbearing effect as a result of the scale and massing of the proposal.” 

However, officers have concluded the proposed mixed-use development will return the ground floor to viable use after more than two years of vacancy. 

They say the plans ensure the site contributes to the vitality and viability of the high street and that it complements the character and appearance of the conservation area. 

Their report adds the proposal is considered to be in “proportion to the scale and function of the centre”, contains appropriate ground floor uses, makes efficient use of the site and is considered to be of appropriate density. 

It said: “With regards to the relationship between the proposal and Luke Court to the left, it is considered that the design of the building would not amount to an overbearing impact on the Luke Court units. 

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“Block B does not extend to a depth that would breach the 45-degree guidance and the courtyard design alleviates the bulk of built form away from the main habitable area of Luke Court. 

“The stairwell windows facing Luke Court and the glazed link could result in potential overlooking, as noted in the two objection letters received. However, this can be dealt with by carefully choosing the type of glass used in these elements of the proposal.” 

A design and access statement published on behalf of applicant Eclipse Property said the plans aim for "a dynamic, multi-purpose new structure that will compliment (sic) its neighbouring buildings".

It believes that the new residential development would "immeasurably enhance" that part of William Hunter Way.

The document adds that the plans "will have a positive impact on the area by way of its high quality design, scale and integration with the local context".

A meeting is set to determine the application today (February 21).