A BLOCK of 16 social housing flats described by one resident as “a rectangular monstrosity” has been rejected for planning permission by Bexley councillors.

Developer JS Rai wanted to turn a space behind homes in Tyrell Avenue, Welling, previously used for 26 garages, into a block of flats and a four-bedroom house.

Bexley Council planners and nearby residents were less than impressed with the plans.

Planning officers told Bexley’s planning control committee the amenity space available to residents of the flats would be only 26 per cent of the site, instead of the council’s 45 per cent requirement, and some of it was not even usable space.

They also said the design of the three/four storey block with a flat roof was not acceptable.

A petition of 75 residents and 15 individuals objected to the plans.

At the meeting one resident said the block was “a rectangular monstrosity. I cannot see a design in it”.

She accepted the area was not one of outstanding beauty but said the block would change the outlook for all residents.

The woman said residents were also concerned about the pressure on street parking.

She added: “I do not reject redevelopment in principle, but the size and the look of this block and the number of homes will not enhance the site.”

Paul Russell, representing the developer, said the site was zoned as residential.

He said the proposal was the best use of an undeveloped site and argued “winter gardens” planted beds and balconies were acceptable and usable amenity space.

Committee members were also unhappy with the plans.

Councillor Alan Downing said: “If ever a piece of land needed development it is this one. But not this development.”

The plan was unanimously rejected.