Plans to complete the demolition of a building at a busy Hugglescote junction - and build new apartments on the site - will be debated by councillors next week.

A scheme for four residential flats at 2, Central Road, has been 'called in' by Cllr Russell Johnson.

It will be discussed at Tuesday's North West Leicestershire District Council planning committee meeting in Coalville.

Cllr Johnson's reasons for bringing the application, by Mr Craig Farrell of Evo Real Estate Ltd, to councillors are: 

• concerns relating to highway safety (including a lack of car parking within the development)
• design, character and appearance concerns (relating to the side elevation)
• impacts upon the residential amenity
• the proposals would constitute overdevelopment

Council officers will advise the committee to permit the application, which was submitted in January.

A design and access statement submitted by the applicant says: "The current structure has undergone partial demolition and is in a state of disrepair. 

"Adjacent to it stands a two-storey house, which the proposed development aims to match in terms of both scale and architectural design. 

"Additionally, the project plans to incorporate more greenery into the site to make effective use of the available open space

"With this current condition, the development is required as that will look to enhance the site and streetscape.

"The proposal entails the demolition of the existing partially demolished structure and the construction of a two-storey building, which will consist of a total of four apartments and studios. 

"The ground floor will house two studios with a staircase in between to provide access to the upper-level apartments. 

"On the first and second floor there will be single apartments. All four apartments and studios will adhere to the national space standards for one-bedroom residences. 

"Additionally, the proposal incorporates landscaping elements to promote a greener and eco-friendly environment. 

"To optimise the use of available space, residents will have access to an outdoor amenity area outside of the building.

An impression of how the completed building will look if planning permission is granted. Image: Ionic Design/North West Leicestershire District Council

"The development plan promotes a car-free environment to encourage residents to rely more on public transportation. 

"Considering the site's location, introducing car parking would negatively impact the junction, leading to increased traffic. 

"Therefore, not including car parking addresses several issues associated with the site."

The statement concludes: "The proposed development has been thoughtfully designed with the needs of the local community in focus. 

"It is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and address the town's need for apartments and accommodations. 

"While prioritising user comfort and aesthetics, the proposal also fully complies with space standards criteria. 

"The revitalisation of the derelict and abandoned site is intended to be an efficient use of space and a valuable contribution to the community."