PROPOSED changes to apartments for disabled people were unanimously opposed by councillors out of fear they will hamper the view of an ancient monument.

Frinton and Walton town councillors voted against amendments to HSN Care’s proposed 16-home development at the former Martello Caravan Park in Kirby Road, Walton.

The plans already have planning permission but bosses had hoped to move the scheme about six metres closer to the tower.

At its highest point, the building will be 15.9 metres compared to the tower’s 16.9 metres.

The enabled living facility for profoundly disabled adults is beside Martello Tower K which is a Grade II listed building.

A medical centre and pharmacy both received outline planning permission in December 2015.

During a Tendring Council planning meeting, Paul Clifton (Tendring First), who represents Kirby Cross, said it was “heartbreaking” for the two buildings to be nearly as tall as one another, while Nick Turner (Con) said it “fails miserably” to maintain and enhance the historic tower.

Pamela Walford (Con) added: “Am I the only one who thinks it looks like a prison? It’s not in keeping with the area at all.

“The Martello Tower is part of our heritage and shouldn’t be spoilt.”

Pressure on the town’s only doctor’s surgery was also a strong reason for refusal.

Jack Robertson (TF) said: “We have to think long and hard about this application.

“There isn’t enough doctors and the surgery can’t attract any more so this might be the nail in the coffin - it could just be too much. They’re already at their wits ends.

“The development just isn’t in the right place in all honestly.”

Jack Goulde, director of HSN Care, said: “We’re going to be providing a number of job opportunities and we certainly welcome anyone interested in furthering their career in the industry to contact us.”