PLANS are in place to build a block of flats above a restaurant in Southend town centre.

Architects Breley Design have submitted plans to build 24 flats above Mange Tout in Tylers Avenue - the latest in a spate of applications to build flats above shops.

The development will have one, two and three-bedroom flats with balconies and a roof terrace.

It follows applications to build a number of flats above shops in Southend High Street and could be a further catalyst for the regeneration of the town centre.

If the application gets planning permission, the restaurant will remain open while the construction takes place.

There are no parking spaces provided for the flats, however.

The application from architects Breley Design said: “The proposal is car-free given its central and sustainable location and the provision of public car-parking nearby.

“However, the proposed development does include 42 new and dedicated cycle parking spaces and associated facilities including safe, convenient and secure cycle storage for future occupants.”

Dwight Breley, from Breley Design, said: “We have a long history with this site. We were the designers for the original Churchills many years ago. Since then we have always seen the potential in the site for redevelopment.

“We have been working on the planning application for over a year and submitted a pre-planning application with the council who offered helpful advice during the design stage. Our hope is that the advice received will give this application the best chance to succeed.

“During the design stage Mangetout were consulted on the design and are considered a valued part of this development.”

The plans compliment council aims to bring more residential accommodation close to retail areas in the town centre. It is hoped this will attract visitors to town centre shops and businesses and add to much-needed housing was in a bid to boost visitors for nearby shops and businesses, as well as providing much-needed housing.

Permission was granted in February to transform the nine-storey block on the corner of Elmer Approach and High Street into flats.

Plans have now been submitted to convert part of Santander, at 114 to 116 on the High Street and the two floors above into bedsits.