A ROW has broken out about balancing quality of life with the need for new homes in Southend, with the spotlight falling on Lundy Close.

Families living in the area claim the green open space near their homes is crucial to their lifestyle while elements of Southend Council believe it could be the perfect spot for up to 31 more properties.

At a heated council meeting on Thursday night the battle lines were drawn and the council is divided over whether housing plans should be abandoned due to opposition from residents.

Tory councillor and ward member David McGlone said: “A number of residents have voiced their overwhelming opposition to any build of any kind on this very small strip of land.

“To call it a strip of land is accurate, that is exactly what it is.

“I can’t see how any properties can be squeezed on this strip of land - it is totally unsuitable.

“Residents have given clear reasons for their objections based on the reasonable fact that this is an amenity area built within the estate for residents to enjoy.”

He added that taking away the green space was “absolutely outrageous”.

However Labour ward councillor Daniel Cowan described these claims as “absolute bunkum”.

He said: “All this is, is deciding whether to draw up plans. If we decide not to draw up plans we are cancelling the council’s land review because we are setting a precedent that no other parcel of land can be looked at for potential development.”

Leader Ian Gilbert claimed there are no formal plans for housing and this was an “indicative exercise” but later admitted an architect could be appointed next month.

He added: “We have 1,400 people on our housing list, along with 209 households in temporary accommodation and 320 children in temporary accommodation. If I was in opposition I would look at this and say are you doing enough? What else are you going to do?”

The council has received 85 objections.

Suggested plans include anywhere between seven to 31 homes.

Tory group leader councillor Tony Cox referred the issue to a full council meeting due to be held on October 24 where it will be discussed again. Southend West MP Sir David Amess is supporting residents.