A DEVELOPER has unveiled plans for six new homes at a vacant site in a village.

Argent Developers seeks planning permission to demolish an existing commercial building, and convert another, to create six new homes in Southminster Road in Althorne.

Its plans also include the conversion of another existing building into a refused and storage facility as well as landscaping and access.

The existing buildings on the site were last used for the restoration of classic cars under previous planning permission.

However, according to the developer, the permission was never implemented due to "unforeseen personal circumstances" of the then applicant.

The site, Buttons Barn, has therefore remained vacant for about four years.

The applicant's agent CODE adds in a statement: "During the site’s period of vacancy, the site has become somewhat unkept and overgrown in appearance, thereby offering no positive benefit or value economically or visually.

"In our view, the site is currently causing harm to the character and amenity of the adjacent area."

If successful the plans would result in the loss of employment land but CODE says the potential to offer a "wide selection" of employment uses is "extremely limited".

The developer also argues the site would have a greater benefit for the community if its use were residential as this would "ensure that the appearance of the site did not fall into further disrepair and become unsightly".

A total of 14 parking spaces are planned for the six homes.

Maldon District Council will have the final say on the application.