PROPOSALS to demolish a disused community hall and replace it with six new homes have been given the go-ahead.

Basildon Council’s planning committee approved a planning application submitted by Sempra Homes for a new development in Kershaw Close, off Nevendon Road, on Tuesday night.

The development will see the Park Lodge Community Hall be torn down to make way for four two-bedroom terraced homes and two two-bedroom flats.

There will be two parking spaces per home and 13 extra spaces for general use.

Although the application acknowledged that the redevelopment of the site would result in less car parking spaces for the public, there will be extra spaces for those who live there, including on-street parking.

Committee members also approved a second Sempra Homes planning application to demolish two garage blocks in Thackeray Road, Wickford.

They will be replaced by four terraced two-bedroom homes with two parking spaces per property.

The developments will all be affordable rent and let to local people on Basildon Council’s homeseeker register.

Sempra Homes is a commercial arm of Basildon Council set up to develop quality housing across the borough.

The developments off Nevendon Road are part of Sempra’s plans to create more than 580 new homes across Basildon borough in the next five years.

Melanie Keys, manager of Sempra Homes, said that the new homes would be ideal for people looking to buy their first home as well as retired residents who are looking to downsize.

She said: “Sempra Homes will provide a range of tenures including affordable rent, shared ownership, market rent and market sale.

“These homes will provide something for everyone, from singles and couples looking to buy their first home, to families needing extra space, as well as older people wanting to downsize and enjoy their retirement.

“As well as providing much-needed good quality housing that is well designed, secure and affordable to heat, Sempra will also deliver a range of other benefits on its development sites ensuring unsightly and underused areas can be revamped to be more attractive to the public.”

To find out more, visit www.semprahomes.co.uk.