Flats plan for eyesore site

An artist's impression of the 71 apartments which could replace the derelict Hollenden House, on Buckhurst Road, has already been released

Hastings-based developer, The Park Lane Group, propose to demolish the building and replace it with 43 private and 28 affordable 'environmentally friendly' flats.

Neighbours and stakeholders are invited to attend the exhibition to view the plans, drawings and computer-generated street scenes for the development of the former retirement home for ex-servicemen, which closed in 2003.

The empty building, which has fallen into a state of disrepair, has attracted complaints from neighbours about its appearance and youths misbehaving on the premises.

The developer's intended plans include flat roofs covered in an extensive green roof sedum system, provide a varied habitat for insects and birdlife and help control storm water run off. The green roofs will complement a rainwater harvesting system, and harvested water will be used throughout the development for toilet flushing.

Russell Beswick, The Park Lane Group's managing director, said: "Hollenden House has been a bone of contention amongst neighbours since it closed in 2003 with regular calls to the police complaining about anti-social behaviour. This development will improve the area and it is essential we work with the community to create a property which will enhance the neighbourhood."

The exhibition is on Tuesday (September 11) between 2pm and 8pm at The Manor Barn.

A planning application is due to be submitted to the council's planning department in the coming weeks.