Developers are looking to build a business park next to major tourist attraction.

It is hoped about 130 jobs will be created through the scheme on the site of Elmstead Garden Centre, bordering Beth Chatto’s Gardens at Elmstead Market.

Mrs Chatto has said she is in favour of the proposal, which would transform a site described by Tendring Council’s regeneration supremo as an “eyesore”.

Plans have been submitted to the council’s planners and received an “initially favourable” response.

The firm behind the scheme, Clarkfield Partnership, wants to build units covering 50,000 sq ft, including a small number of shops, a cafe, offices, light industrial premises, and storage facilities.

About a third of the 6.75-acre site would be turned into parkland containing a pond.

Les Double, regeneration portfolio holder at the council, said: “The regeneration team has been working with this applicant for some months to ensure liaison with the local community and parish council.  “The site in question has been the subject of a number of complaints relating to inappropriate uses and parts of it to the rear are a serious eyesore.  “We are, therefore, pleased that this application will address these issues, and both retain and improve employment opportunities for the local community.”