A building site in North Cheam could soon be transformed into a block of 74  flats and look “less like a war zone” according to one local.

Plans to build a seven-storey block have been put forward for an empty site occupied by the now demolished 1960s office building Victoria House.

If approved, the new building will dominate the Malden Road traffic junction with the A24 London Road.

A planning application has been submitted by Home Group, which previously had plans for a 10-storey block rejected by Sutton Council in 2017. An appeal against the decision was unsuccessful in November 2018.

Now the developer is back with a smaller scheme made up of part seven, part four-storey building of 74 one and two-bedroom flats with commercial space on the ground floor.

The plans have received a handful of public comments, with a mix in favour and against.

One concern is there would not be enough parking. Plans include 43 spaces for cars and room for 149 push bikes.

One objection reads: “The building is far too tall and not in keeping with the rest of the buildings. There is insufficient parking for the number of proposed flats and parking in North Cheam is already a real issue.”

But another supports the height of the building saying it would improve the area.

The comment reads: “There are not enough parking spaces but [I] understand the rules in this respect.

“Having stared at the decaying, dilapidated previous building for approx 18 years, I support the application so that finally, North Cheam has a chance to look less like a war zone.”

The plans show the flats will have their own balconies and access to communal outdoor spaces and play areas.

A developer planning statement said: “Home Group believes the Victoria House site represents an exciting opportunity to maximise the potential of this sustainable location and deliver lasting benefits for the local community. It is confident that any potential adverse effects arising from development can be avoided or effectively mitigated to an acceptable level.

“A high-quality scheme of exceptional design can be delivered in a viable way to meet the requirements and aspirations of local people and planning policy.”