VILLAGERS are divided over plans to demolish a bank and replace it with a retail complex and flats.

The former Lloyds bank site in Church Road, Tiptree, could be knocked down and redeveloped, according to blueprints seen by the Gazette.

The existing two-storey site was closed in July 2022.

The ground floor is intended to be used for a commercial, business and service space while four flats could be put in place above it.

One resident who is against the proposal has shared concerns about where retail workers and residents would park.

According to the plans, however, developers would look to establish an additional two spaces on the site, bringing the total to seven car parking spaces.

Another resident, meanwhile, is in favour of the plans, believing the development “will support and benefit the community”.

Tiptree Parish Council has revealed it has no objection to the development.

Council bosses are, however, concerned it may be “difficult for pedestrians and mobility aid users to safely pass” the location if the width of the pavement is reduced as proposed.

“Issues with drainage” along the same stretch of pavement are also proving a worry.

A spokesman for Tiptree Parish Council said: “Tiptree Parish Council have no objection to these plans, however, it was noted that there is no demolition plan included in the document.”

“The committee queried using the current access in Ketleys Place with access to the new parking by granting access from the current car park at Ketleys Place, this would also mean there is only one entrance and exit along this stretch of the road rather than two.

“The planning committee of Tiptree Parish Council would also like the highways authority to visit and be aware of the narrow pavement that would remain should the building move forward.

“This will further reduce the width of the pavement along this stretch of Church Road leaving it difficult for pedestrians and mobility aid users to safely pass this location, especially when multiple users are present.

“There are issues with drainage and open drainage channels along this stretch of pavement and road and an improvement to this as part of this planning application would benefit the residents of Tiptree.”