CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 33 flats on a derelict plot of land in Highbridge have been given the thumbs down by town councillors who say the development would be 'detrimental' to the town.

Councillors from Burnham and Highbridge Town Council voted unanimously to object against the application at a meeting on September 6 with one describing an artists' impression of the proposed building as 'prison like'.

The proposal, which was submitted to Sedgemoor District Council in August by New Shore Developments, shows plans to build 33 flats consisting of 19 one bedroom and 14 two bedroom apartments on the Market Street site, which used to be occupied by Canal House.

The application also includes plans to build 33 underground parking spaces, bicycle access, a rooftop garden and to construct a pedestrian access path through from Market Street.

David Barrett, who lives next to the site said he has 'major concerns' about the project and says the development would be 'overbearing, out of scale and out of character' in terms of its appearance and would not be in keeping with existing buildings in the area.

"If this development is approved it would have an adverse affect on residents and neighbours from overlooking, a loss of privacy, noise, disturbance and very limited access for one flat at Island House," he said.

Mr Barrett also said he has concerns about parking around the site as he says there are already problems with on and off street parking in and around Market Street.

"This development would generate high traffic volumes in the area, access for emergency vehicles would be made very difficult," he said.

He said he does believe the site needs to be developed but said he feels the plans are 'wrong' for the area.

Mike Murphy, chairman of Highbridge Chamber of Trade echoed Mr Barrett's comments and said he believes that outline planning permission which was granted for 14 flats and retail outlets on the site in 2010 would be better placed on the empty site.

"I just think there is not the right mix here, I am disappointed that there are no plans for retail units the planning application," he said.

"Extra retail units would be of benefit to Highbridge."

Councillors debated the proposals at length and shared concerns of residents about parking, the building's appearance and the Cllr Peter Burridge-Clayton said he 'completely agreed' with Mr Barrett's comments and said he 'totally objects' to the proposals as they are against the town's Neighbourhood Plan.

"We said to Sedgemoor District Council 'no more flats' and this application is all apartments," the councillor said.

"We already have a 550 home development coming to Highbridge, this development should include retail units."

Cllr Bill Hancock described the development as 'cell block H' and said he wants a development to go on the site that could be used by future generations.

Councillors unanimously voted to object to the proposals but the final decision rests with planning officers at Sedgemoor District Council.

It is expected that a decision will be made on the development by September 29.