DOZENS of flats could be built in place of a row of Bournemouth homes if new plans are approved.

Verwood-based Fayrewood Property has applied for permission to demolish the homes at The Woodrisings in Branksome Wood Road to make way for a six-storey block of 55 flats.

It said the development would better fit in with surrounding buildings while also not negatively affecting the listed Upper Gardens the site backs onto.

Submitted earlier this month, the application proposes the demolition of the eight houses at The Woodrisings to clear the way for the new six-storey block of flats.

Thirty-four parking spaces would be provided.

None of the flats would be made available on an ‘affordable’ basis.

It said the increased scale of development could be justified in an area it described as “transitional” between the larger buildings to the east and its western side.

And a statement submitted with the application says the scheme would help the council meet its “very substantial deficit” in new housing compared to its target.

“The proposal presents a sustainable form of development, contributing to the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of Bournemouth,” it says.

“The proposal would lead to the intensification of brownfield land in a highly sustainable location [and] would lead to a much-needed boost to housing land supply in an area with a very substantial deficit.”

It adds that the provision of 34 parking spaces, which is below BCP Council’s requirement for development in that area, could be justified.

“The site is on the very edge of the town centre and has excellent connections on foot and by bus to high-order facilities and services,” it says.

“Indeed, an existing link within the site to the gardens and public footpath to the rear would be retained and would continue to provide a very convenient and quick link into the town centre on foot.”

The application will be considered by council planning officers in the coming weeks.