Adding an additional storey to an existing block of flats in Allerton would resemble “a Brazilian favela” and impact people’s mental health, it has been claimed.
Dozens of residents in Beech Court and surrounding properties came together to slam proposals to construct nine new properties on top of the 30 flats that are already in place.
Applicant Rachmarc Properties is seeking to add the homes on a new floor above the current three storey building that consists of two-bed flats.
READ MORE: Walton inmate found dead as cells reopened after lunchtime lockdown
According to the application submitted to Liverpool Council by Peter Hamilton planning consultancy on behalf of Rachmarc Properties, the proposed development would include one two-bed and eight further one-bed apartments on top of the current block of flats.
A supporting statement submitted as part of the application outlines that the one bed flats “are designed with a study/office space to provide accommodation for occupiers to work from home.”
Residents gathered into the Allerton United Reformed Church on Mather Avenue on Tuesday to air their opposition to the plans.
Sara Richardson, a resident of nearby Verdala Park, offered to start a petition to submit before Liverpool Council’s planning committee.
She said: “People don’t realise the detrimental effect this could have.
“It’s going to impact people’s mental health, we’ve had the last two and half years in purgatory, now this.
“It’s quiet around that area, this just isn’t fair.
“So many people will be perturbed and upset, we can’t just sit here and do nothing.”
Cllr Andrew Makinson attended to offer advice to residents hoping to formally object to the plans.
He said: ”At this stage it’s about numbers and those who show their strength of feelings.
“It does make a difference.
“Chase people up, keep trying until they’ve registered their concerns.”
In a written objection, resident Dave Beckett said the effect of the overall development would be “mimicking a Brazilian favela" - favelas are shantytown areas which have popped up on the outskirts of Brazil's large cities.
Paul Riley, who chaired the meeting, added concerns over existing vehicles coming to the area.
He said: “You can’t get parked there now, adding more cars will make it worse.
“There’ll be another nine to 18 vehicles added and the only bit of green space we’ve got will be turned into a car park.”
Neighbours resolved to form a working committee to formalise their objection to the plans, including potential legal advice.
The proposals are expected to go before Liverpool Council’s planning committee later this year.
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
