Tesco's controversial plans for a village supermarket plus housing, business units and a community centre have got the go-ahead.

The scheme for the former Tiptree Book Services site will not be decided by public inquiry, the Gazette can reveal today (Thursday).

Colchester Council has already approved the scheme for Tiptree, but it was called in by the Government to consider calling a public inquiry. Now it has said an inquiry is not necessary.

The site has been earmarked by developers London and Amsterdam for a 2,578 sq ft supermarket, with 233 car spaces, 70 homes, a community centre and business start-up area. The scheme is likely to create 200 jobs.

It was opposed by Tiptree Development Forum, whose chairman David Felstead said: "None of the points raised have really been taken into account."

But borough councillor Tony Webb, who is in favour of the plan, said: "I am pleased that a mainly derelict site can now be rejuvenated."

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