PLANS to build a block of 32 flats have been given the go-ahead after concerns about fumes and smoke from a nearby industrial estate were smoothed over.

Developer Maywald Properties wants to demolish the workshops and warehouses at 285 Sutton Road, including Alpine Reproduction, and build a four-storey block of flats, with basement parking.

The plans had been recommended for refusal by Southend Council officers because they were concerned that smoke and fumes coming from an incinerator at C&B Techniques Ltd on the industrial estate in neighbouring Redstock Road could affect residents in the new flats.

But the developer met Christopher Morris, who owns the business, and Maywald agreed to pay to replace it with a more eco-friendly machine which would not emit fumes or smells.

So officers changed their mind and recommended the plan be approved and members of the development control committee voted unanimously by 15 to none in favour.

Planning officer Charlotte Galforg said: “There’s been negotiations with the owner of the adjacent site.

“He’s given assurances before development starts on the site and planning officers are satisfied that the issue with regards to the incinerator can be overcome.”

The building, which backs onto the Greyhound Way industrial estate, would be made up of 17 one-bedroom flats and 15 two-bedroom flats, with 20 per cent set aside for affordable housing for people on low incomes.

The plan includes a communal amenity space and a driveway leading on to Sutton Road and basement parking for 32 cars.