Plans to bulldoze flats in Beckenham and build a four-storey block of apartments have been submitted to the council.

Developer Joseph Samuel Ltd has proposed knocking down six homes in Croydon Road and replace them with a much larger development – annoying neighbours concerned about parking.

With neighbouring properties being extended, the developer said building work would make better use of the site, and provide “much needed” homes.

It said in a statement: “The proposed development comprises an excellent mix of additional, modern accommodation for the borough.

“The design of the building will help to improve the character of the area by creating a new, sympathetically design and will provide ample amenity space and secure cycle parking.”

The plans would have 10 two-bedroom apartments built over a building four storeys high – bigger than the majority of other developments nearby.

One neighbour said: “The new proposed building will be larger and higher than the current building.

“It will have balconies overlooking all the gardens on that side of Westbury Road, taking away our enjoyment of our own homes. The current building has six flats, the proposed has 10 flats which means overcrowding.

“The current flats don’t have enough parking and their refuse is left spilling onto the footpath for days. Double the amount of people living there and it will be worse.”

Another neighbour also has concerns about the pavement, saying: “I object for the main of the impact of highway safety – with young children the constant construction vehicles in and out of a small space is dangerous especially given that this is a main route for parents to a school.

“Not to mention this area has had almost non-stop construction work over the past three years, making it a very stressful and noisy environment to bring up a family.”

The scheme was submitted to Bromley Council’s planning officers this week, with a decision expected in the coming months.