Councillors have backed plans for a new block of flats in Bexleyheath despite concerns from neighbours about overcrowding.

Bencewell Properties plans nine apartments in Broomfield Road spread over two storeys, the majority of which would be two-bedroom.

Residents objected to the plans, claiming there would be noise and disturbance, and disruption at the junction at Broomfield Road and Gravel Hill due to extra traffic.

Neighbours said there is not enough parking planned, with the developer proposing eight spaces for nine flats.

One objector said at last week’s planning meeting: “This is not realistic in the area with poor public transport links.

“Most households on the street have two cars with space for one on the drive. The impact of more cars will be felt more than what’s been reported.

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“Overdevelopment and overcrowding at the northern end of the street is already an issue. There is a line not crossed with developments on this side of the road and this sets a dangerous precedent.”

The developer says the scheme is sensitive to neighbours’ concern and would deliver much needed homes to the borough.

In a planning statement, Bencwell Properties said: “The objective of the proposal is to make more efficient use of the land whilst preserving the character of the area, retaining the residential use on the site and create additional dwellings whilst ensuring they don’t have a detrimental effect on their immediate neighbours.”

Councillors approved the plans along with several other schemes that combined will bring around 140 new homes to the borough.

Plans for a tower in Sidcup, a revamp of Belvedere police station and a new block of flats in Yarnton Way were all approved on Thursday, February 28.

The Sidcup scheme was criticised by councillors for featuring zero affordable housing – but was approved as the developer offered a cash payment instead.

Bexley Council has an ambitious growth strategy, which outlines 31,500 homes and 17,000 jobs in the borough up to 2050.