One of Colchester's biggest employers plans to demolish its factory to make way for a major homes development.
Betts stands to make millions of pounds by selling off its headquarters in Ipswich Road.
The toothpaste tube manufacturer, which employs about 300 people, says it wants to move to a new base "in the local area".
With bosses declining to comment further today, it was unclear whether "in the local area" meant Colchester or elsewhere in Essex.
One possible destination might be the nearby Easter Park business complex, which is currently under construction a short distance from the factory, near Colchester's new community stadium.
Betts, which shed 200 jobs in 2004, said in a letter to residents that its business was no longer suited to its current home, which stands in a prime housing location a stone's throw from the A12 and A120 junction at Ardleigh Crown interchange.
- Betts is to hold two public exhibitions on its proposals from 3pm to 8pm tomorrow and Thursday.
- More in today's Gazette
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article