Six homes could be built on green belt following the demolition of the site's existing properties if plans are granted by the local authority.

Applicant Mark Potter has proposed to demolish the premises at 128-130 Shepherds Hill in Harold Wood and build six three-bed homes in its place.

The plans, P0374.24, currently undecided, were received on March 13 and validated later in the month. Havering Council has set a decision date to May 21.

While the design and access statement in support of the application acknowledged the site is identified as green belt, it stated that there is a demand for housing in Havering it was seeking to meet.

"These properties fall into the provision for new housing," the statement added.

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The application is being supported by agent BJL Design Limited and includes associated parking for the homes with amenity space.

Under "existing use", the site is listed as residential with two vacant homes and a garage with an annex, according to the application form.

It was last used for residential purposes on February 1, 2021, the form added.

It was argued by the applicant that the site, despite being deemed green belt, could be classed as brownfield.

"The planners identify this as a green belt site however, we see this as a brownfield site due to the level of development," the design and access statement read.

The existing properties were also said to be "aged" and the six replacement homes were proposed be in keeping with the street scene.

The statement said the proposed number of homes have been cut from eight in a previous application.

"By reducing the scheme by two additional units and reducing the height significantly under the original building, the proposal will be less harmful to the surrounding properties," it was argued.

"A great deal of time has gone into the developments in the area [such as this application] to provide a scheme and style which would be more acceptable to the street scene."

The impact on neighbours was another consideration taken in the design and access statement.

"All elements of the neighbours' scene have been taken into consideration," it said. "The proposal has a minimal impact to the neighbouring properties and a limited visual impact."