Plans to demolish a house in Beaconsfield and build a block of five flats in its place were deferred by the council this week, as a consultation into the development is still ongoing.

South Bucks District Council’s (SBDC) planning committee met on October 10 to discuss the proposals to demolish 70 Ledborough Lane and build a 2.5 storey apartment block in its place.

Councillors raised concerns the 21-day consultation inviting residents to comment on the plans is not due to finish until October 24, so called for the final decision to be delayed until the next planning committee meeting.

Councillor Trevor Egleton said: “I do have a concern that we are making a decision without the results of the consultation.

“I think it has been said that we really ought to not delegate, but come back when the consultation period is over.”

The block would be made up of four two-bedroom and one three bedroom flats, as well as a basement for parking.

SBDC received nine letters of objection to the plans, including criticisms regarding the “overbearing” nature of the development, a lack of affordable housing and the loss of protected trees.

The application will be decided at the next planning committee meeting on November 2.