THE stink from Crossness sewage works may scupper plans to build a hotel, a supermarket, offices and more than 400 new homes.

Developer Imperial Gateway hopes to redevelop the empty 12-acre site, known as Norman Park.

It is on the edge of the Belvedere industrial area, between Yarnton Way and Picardy Manorway and is close to smells from Crossness.

But Bexley Council's planning committee, which has given the green light to outline plans for the development, was warned if an October update on improvements at Crossness does not come up to scratch, the development may not go ahead.

Some members at last week's planning committee meeting were less than enthusiastic about the scheme.

The development includes an 87-bedroom Travel Inn and pub, a petrol station, a fast food outlet, a restaurant, a supermarket, a health and fitness studio, offices and 402 flats in blocks up to six storeys high.

Ward councillor Daniel Francis warned about the ongoing problems with Crossness.

As recently as August people were still complaining about the smell.

He was also worried about the potential for flooding on the site and pointed out in the past three years, valves at the nearby Thames Water pumping station have failed twice.

He also had concerns about the high density of the housing development.

Other councillors shared Cllr Francis's concerns.

Councillor Richard Gillespie wanted a more imaginative design for the housing, saying: "It could turn into a concrete jungle."

And Councillor Alan Downing described the development as "a mish-mash."

Bexley's Natural Environment Focus Group also objected to the development claiming the land was lower Thames grazing marsh which is a priority habitat.

Speaking for the developer, Andy Ryley described the land as a key Thames Gateway site.

He said the company had been discussing its plans with Bexley and the Greater London Authority for some years.

Mr Ryley described the project as a high-quality sustainable development with environmental features such as wind turbines and green roofs and said Crossness was "a non-issue."

The development was agreed by 10 votes to three.

Cllr Francis made one request to the developer, asking it to consider naming one of the roads after former long-time Belvedere councillor Joe Delaney, known affectionately as Mr Belvedere.

He said: "I would like to see a lasting memorial to him."