CIVIC chiefs look set to back plans to transform a site at the entrance to a Hampshire town.

Members of Totton and Eling Town Council's planning committee are being recommended to support proposals to "regenerate" part of Commercial Road by building a block of 11 flats.

Consent is being sought to demolish advertising boardings and three properties at the western end of the site.

Describing the proposed development as a "vast improvement" on the site's current appearance the application says the buildings have no merit and fail to create a welcoming approach to the town centre.

The three properties are numbers 93, 95 and 95A.

The application says: "Commercial Road, as its name suggests, has a strong commercial use but this is interspersed with various residential properties along its length.

"The road is a main route into the centre of Totton.

"The existing buildings on the site, coupled with several plots along the road which act as gaps within the street scene, do not create a welcoming approach into the town."

A report to town councillors says: "The proposal is for eleven one-bedroom flats, which would meet housing need.

"Good transport links out of town, easy access to the train station and walking distance to the town centre.

"The design has been well thought out with landscaping to the front and

amenity area to the rear which would enhance the local area."

The application will be decided by New Forest District Council.