A long-promised relief road and major housing development have been approved.

Planning applications for the southern section of the Stanway bypass and the building of a further 600 homes on the former gravel pit at Church Lane were granted by Colchester Council last night.

Developers O&H Properties and Regent New Homes will also create a 28-acre country park, provide a site and £451,102 for a primary school and contribute £520,000 for community facilities, £60,000 for public transport and £40,000 for art.