Plans for luxury flats which neighbours claimed could “cause a tidal wave of destruction” have been refused by councillors.

At a meeting of Epping Forest District Council last night (February 3), a potential five-flat development for Stradbroke Drive in Chigwell was debated.

The “classically inspired” proposal with indoor cinema, gym and underground car park was submitted by applicant Robert Davis to replace an existing five-bedroom house and outdoor swimming pool.

Despite facing intense opposition from neighbours and Chigwell Parish Council, planning officers had recommended the 15-bedroom development for approval.

Speaking last night, officer Stefan Solon said it would be a “development not in a green belt site that would add to a mix of housing types… officers have looked at this carefully and believe the recommendation should be one of approval.”

Public speaker Janice Redmond gave an impassioned speech against the plans, saying “just as a banana is not an apple, flats are not a house.”

She said: “My family have been residents of Stradbroke Drive for 17 years.

“The bulk and mass of this 15-bedroomed, four storey building is clearly an overdevelopment.

“It is not in character with the area and it is completely contrary to the existing street-scene.”

She added that if permission was granted, “a floodgate will open for developers to put in applications for more flats which would completely change the look, feel and tone of a quiet family street.

“Once a precedent for mass over-development and change of character and street scene has been set, I wonder what similar roads will be targeted for pure financial gain.”

Despite Mr Davis’ agent claiming the flats would be “much needed additional homes”, councillors disagreed.

Councillor Brian Sandler said: “I totally agree with the objector on this, not the applicant, I think it would be totally inappropriate.

“I am very concerned and a bit upset that officers can even consider taking down a perfectly good house in a residential road completely filled with one-family homes on the entire plot.”

Councillor John Knapman claimed approval of the plans could set a precedent for more, saying he was “certainly not prepared to preside over the destruction of a street.”

Voting after the debate, councillors unanimously refused Mr Davis permission.