Protesters fighting plans for 50 flats on Canvey were warned the island's young adults needed somewhere to live.

The controversial Homestead development of 27 one-bedroomed flats and 23 two-bedroomed homes in Long Road was finally approved by Castle Point planning committee last night after heated debate and heckling from objectors.

Many were worried about the lack of car parking on the site and others feared the affect on drainage of another 50 flats in the area.

However, planning director Ian Burchill said there were not strong enough grounds to turn the plans down and told how it could cost the council - and ultimately council taxpayers - tens of thousands to launch an unsuccessful battle against the development.

Published Wednesday December 17, 2003

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