Battersea residents have described a proposed 20-storey tower as a "phallic eyesore" following the submission of a recent planning application.

The existing five-storey Heliport House, in Lombard Road, will be converted into a massive 20-storey tower containing 14 flats containing a roof garden and balconies for each abode.

But Battersea resident Evan Zaranis, of Altura Tower, Bridges Court Road, believes the area is already overrun with luxury towers and offered a stark warning to councillors.

He said: "Are you aware of the referenced Planning Application No. 2013/6052 on a 'phallic' building construction, an eyesore monstrosity if ever there was one, in Battersea?."

At the time of the UK's financial crisis, lack of affordable housing in the region and overexposure of high-rising "luxury" residential buildings along York Road, do we really need just another fifteen three and four bedroom flats costing probably £3m plus at the final stage?

"Battersea has been overexposed to these developments. When will it stop? It is time the local people in Battersea stop this expansion once and for all.

"Local councillors should be aware that local elections are not that far behind and local residents, voters, will not forget the destruction of their community."

According to the planning application, the building would be "re-clad" and extended to include a conference room 'pod' at third floor level with off street car parking at ground floor level.

David Malcolm, from York Road, said: "Of all the buildings, proposed or otherwise, this is by far the most offensive. I have shown this to dozens of friends and not one person said they liked it.

"I hope this does not get past the application stage."

If you wish to comment on this application please write to us either by email (to planningapplications@wandsworth.gov.uk) or letter or via the website by January 13, quoting the reference above.

To read the full application visit www.wandsworth.gov.uk/planning, then clicking 'Find a planning application' enter the code 2013/6052.