Ambitious plans for a massive business park creating up to 1,600 new jobs have been backed by councillors despite protests.

Rochford District Council has given the green light for the new development between Cherry Orchard Lane and Western Approaches in Eastwood.

Many residents stormed angrily from the council chamber in Rayleigh as soon as the vote had been cast late last week.

Three car dealerships, a petrol station, two car body repair shops and a number of light industrial units can now be constructed on the site, which butts on to Southend's boundary with Rochford.

Lib Dem Heather Glynn claimed the scheme would take Rochford into the 21st century.

Labour councillor David Weir, whose ward will house the new development, was vociferous in his opposition.

Mr Weir said: "The proposed construction is a departure from the original plans, which were for just one dealership."

In reply, head of planning Shaun Scrutton said the council wanted a bus service to the edge of the site. He said traffic problems had been at the forefront of discussions with Essex County Council's highways department and Southend Council.

Councillors voted to approve the planning application by 16 votes to eight.

Published Monday December 17, 2001