A new £2m scheme which could create 200 extra jobs has been drawn up to develop a vacant hospital site in Tendring.
Oaktree Care Group wants to set up special assessment and treatment units for people with learning difficulties at Tendring Heath Hospital in Tendring village - and the project would create 200 jobs.
The buildings have stood empty for the past 12 years. The firm, which is based in Manningtree, wants to expand its operation and provide a much-needed facility.
It has come up with the plans which are due to go before Tendring councillors next month.
Mike Volf, owner of Oaktree, said many people with learning difficulties are currently having to go all over the country for the services they require.
"Our aim is to create a centre of excellence in Tendring for Essex people," he said. Mr Volf said Tendring Council had been keen to see the site put back in use.
The idea is to revamp the hospital buildings as general offices, for administration, maintenance and storage facilities and other services.
Tendring Council planning officer Richard Fletcher said the proposal involves continuing with the use of the land for medical and residential institutional purposes but also involves a new build.
Heath Hospital closed in 1990 after 30 years of providing care for the elderly from the Clacton area.
Published Friday November 15, 2002
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