PLANS to redevelop former farm buildings into a new industrial estate have been submitted to Basildon Council.

Developers want to demolish existing buildings on the northern part of Sadlers Hall Farm, Bowers Gifford, and create 11 new industrial units to form a new estate.

The site is a triangular section of green-belt land surrounded by the A13 and the A130 and is made up of a number of commercial buildings on the southern part of the land.

Colchester-based firm Raymond Stemp Associates, on behalf of the developers, had initially wanted to build 13 units but this was reduced to 11 after concerns about scale were raised prior to the application’s submission.

If approved, the units would be grouped into three blocks and will all be single-storey buildings.

It will include 33 car parking spaces for employees and an extra six car parking spaces for visitors with 25 slots for bikes.

The developers do not anticipate any noticeable increase in traffic onto the site.

Developers have defended the use of green-belt land by stating that the area is not valued for its scenic beauty and that the provision of additional employment opportunities would outweigh the preservation of the land.

In a statement supporting the application, Raymond Stemp Associates state: “It is considered that the proposed development of this previously developed commercial site is not inappropriate development of the green belt as it would not have an greater impact on the openness of the green belt than the existing commercial development.

“It would improve the visual character and the appearance of this important entrance to the town of Basildon.”

The planners go on to state that the development would support the growth of the borough by providing additional employment opportunities for the community.

It adds: “The location of this site will help to achieve a strong local economy for Basildon.”

Residents can view and comment on the application via the Basildon Council planning portal prior to the end of the consultation on March 20.