Development Control Board members heard more than 30 objections had been received for plans to demolish a house to make way for eight one-bedroomed and two two-bedroomed apartments.

The applicant, Stephen Lilley, told the meeting the development at 163 Lynn Road would provide a much-needed mixture of smaller dwellings in the area.

The flats would add to the character and quality of the area and the design had been amended to eliminate overlooking of the rear gardens of neighbouring properties.

"The building will sit comfortably in the existing street scene and breathe new life into the area," said Mr Lilley.

Objecting on behalf of local residents, Mrs Elvy Beer said the application would lead to over-development and cramped use of the site. The parking area was visually obtrusive and increased lighting would affect neighbouring homes.

"The development is not in harmony with the area and would interfere with its distinctive ambience," she added.

Downham Town Council opposes the scheme and Cllr Pam Sharp told the meeting it was an unsympathetic design on one of the main gateways into the town. Although the height had been reduced, the footprint was nearly a third larger.

A site visit was proposed by Cllr Trevor Manley. He said: "I have no objection to development on the site but I do wonder if ten flats is the right type of development. I feel two or three houses would be more in keeping with the area."