MORE THAN 100 flats for elderly people and 64 parking spaces have been tipped for approval, despite strong local opposition.

Epping Forest District Council officers have recommended councillors approve plans for 105 apartments where 13, 15 and 15A Alderton Hill, Loughton currently stand.

Their support for the build is at odds with 208 letters of objection from residents against 28 in support.

One Aldeerton Hill resident wrote: "The proposed blocks are hugely oversized and should be reduced in scale to better reflect the size and style of properties elsewhere in the road.

"The amended proposal to plant10m high evergreen trees close to our side rear garden boundary will block out natural light and sunlight to our garden and pool, and we are also concerned about light pollution in the evenings."

The Loughton Resident's Association plans group and town council also expressed disapproval, the latter claiming the development was 'too large' and in an 'unsuitable location'.

If approved at a planning committee on April 18, developers would build linked blocks of apartments with integrated care facilities and supporting amenity facilities, 64 car spaces in 'undercroft parking' at the rear and south side of the block.

The council's report reads: "It is acknowledged that the design and mass of the proposed buildings is different from the remainder of Alderton Hill.

"However this site has different physical characteristics and surroundings to the remainder of Alderton Hill and the proposal would therefore not set an undesirable precedent for similar development elsewhere in the in this road.

"The proposed scheme, with amendments, does not significantly detract from the amenities of neighbours."

Of the 28 letter writers who backed the officer's reasoning, some pointed out the need for well designed homes for elderly people with a diverse range off needs, which they believed would help alleviate pressure on the NHS.