A COUNCIL-OWNED company has been given the green light to develop a property into eight new homes.

Colchester Amphora Homes has won permission to convert a house in multiple occupation at 60 Creffield Road, Colchester, into six flats and two houses.

Two of the flats have been designated to be sold off as affordable housing.

The locally listed building dates back to the Victorian era and the main three-storey house will be home to the flats, while the annexe will be demolished to make way for the two semi-detached houses.

The plans went to the planning committee because Amphora is owned by Colchester Council, and also because of fears raised by New Town and Christchurch councillor Nick Cope.

The long-serving Lib Dem member, who is also Colchester mayor, had raised fears the scheme would overcrowd the small site and that the design was out of keeping for the area.

He also raised concerns about the impact on residents living in nearby Inglis Road.

Members of the planning committee decided to approve the development subject to a number of conditions including that the council is allowed to approve sample brickwork to ensure it fits into the street scene and character of the surrounding conservation area.

They also want approval to be sought for the specific roofing materials used.

Colchester Council’s commercial services boss Theresa Higgins, who is also a councillor for New Town and Christ Church, hailed the decision.

She said: “These new developments will provide top quality homes in our town, desirable places where people will enjoy living.

“High quality building design is an intrinsic part of that, and I look forward to following the delivery of these properties for the people of Colchester in such an excellent location.”

Amphora is working with Ipswich-based architects Barefoot & Gilles on the design of the buildings.

It is hoped they will be available for pre-sale within the next six months.