A block of flats could replace a private car park and a mix of commercial and residential properties on a busy high street.

North London-based applicant Upp Architects and Town Planners submitted plans for nine homes, including a three-storey block of flats, from 169 to 187 Hornchurch High Street.

Two three-storey homes, a vehicle crossing from Fentiman Way to a T-junction within the site and a 1.6 metre pedestrian footway to the side was also included.

The site is currently a mix of shops and homes to the front, and a car park with 39 spaces to the rear, the application form shows. There are no plans to demolish the shops.

Havering Council received the plans on February 15 this year and validated it a day later. A decision date has been set for April 12.

In a supporting statement provided by the applicant, it was argued the development would replace the "inefficient" private car park behind the buildings.

"This [the car park] reflects an inefficient use of land within a district centre close to public transport and amenities," said the applicant.

"The proposal therefore represents a more efficient use of land by proposing nine units in a well-connected town centre location."

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There are six formal car parking areas within 500 metres of the site, the applicant added.

It was also argued the development would improve the southern part of the site which fronts High Street and contains buildings from the 1960s/70s.

"[They] are not considered to be of high quality or architectural merit," it was added.

A small part of the development site is within the St Andrews conservation area, next to the Kings Head pub, a grade II listed building.

"The St Andrews conservation area is described as the 'sacred' core of Hornchurch and is significant as such within the borough of Havering," the supporting statement added.

The applicant also sought to reassure residents that the development would not impact Hornchurch's historic buildings.

"[It] would not compromise the setting of this heritage asset and the conservation area," said the application.

The plans also include a 1.5 metre wide pedestrian footpath along the front of Fentiman Way.

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