A FORMER garden centre besieged by vandalism could become home to 29 new houses under new plans.

The Dengie Garden Centre closed in October 2011.

Now Mayflower Development and Estates Ltd has submitted plans for 29 homes on the site in Mill Road, Mayland – 12 of which will be affordable.

The bid also includes a change of use from sui generis to residential.

The 2.1 hectare site – the size of around two football pitches – is brownfield land and contains a number of derelict structures.

The planning application said: “The existing site is unsightly and is subject to vandalism and associated noise and disturbance to neighbours.

“The removal of the buildings and greenhouse structures and the redevelopment of the site would result in a clear environmental benefit to the site as well as neighbouring residential properties.”

The plans also include plans for open space and communal gardens.

The application added: “A small public space off Mill Road serves as a meeting point and play space for residents along Mill Road.

“Overall the character of the proposal aims to integrate with the feel of country lanes specific to this edge of village location.”

Maldon District Council will have the final say on the plans.