A TOTAL of 70 homes and two office units could be built on former MOD land.

Bovis Homes applied to convert retained ex-MOD buildings at Colchester Garrison in Circular Road North.

Colchester Council's planning committee is set to approve the plans at a meeting on April 26.

The Garrison Urban Village Development was granted outline planning permission in June 2003 and this application site forms part of this development.

Some concerns were raised by architectural experts.

Colchester Council's report said: "The application concerns the conversion and alteration of historic buildings of the former Regimental Cavalry Barracks of Colchester Garrison.

"The Cavalry Barracks was the earliest permanent cavalry barracks at Colchester Garrison, constructed in 1862.

"This is the most complete complex of its kind in England and a rare survival."

It said if planning permission is granted, the significance of the heritage assets needs to be recorded before they are destroyed.

Main concerns from residents and the urban design officer were around parking.

The report said: "Objection is raised primarily with regard to car parking unreasonably dominating the public realm.

"Other issues relate to access and storage. A more balanced and creative approach is necessary to subtly accommodate parking in a way which also means the layout provides reasonable levels of private amenity space."

The report says a total of 111 parking spaces are proposed.

The planning committee said the proposal provides economic benefits through construction, regeneration of the garrison area and the possible creation of additional jobs.

They said: "The social role of sustainable development is described as a supporting strong vibrant and healthy communities and by creating a high quality built environment with accessible local services.

"The development will provide a choice of housing types with a range of prices in a sustainable location.

"It will therefore contribute positively towards the borough’s supply of housing."