FIVE blocks of flats could be built on the site of a former dairy in Runcorn if plans are given the green light.

AKM Homes Limited has submitted proposals for the three-storey apartments on Sewell Street which would feature a total of 33 properties.

According to documents submitted to Halton Council’s planning department, the scheme would consist of 17 one-bedroom, and 16 two-bedroom apartments.

There would also be 33 car parking spaces, three disability spaces, two spaces for motorcycles and 26 for bicycles.

Once completed, the housing development would be made available for affordable rent.

The site is currently vacant and used to be occupied by Express Dairies, but a design and access statement submitted  by the developers claimes the area had since been hit by 'fly tipping and antisocial behaviour'.

It said: “The application site itself originally contained a dairy site and terraced housing.

“The site Is currently vacant and has areas of overgrowth with dense unkempt vegetation.

"The site has generally been left unattended and neglected with evidence of fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour found across the area.”

The company submitted a pre application in June and has since been liaising with borough planning officers to develop a workable scheme.

The report added: “After pre-application feedback was received, additional consultation and appraisal was carried out with the design team, and the representatives of local housing associations.

“The scheme is planned to function as affordable housing upon completion and thus input from potential end clients/users was an important and informative part of the design process.”