Plans to build large numbers of new houses in Colchester have been revealed - and it could be the biggest development since High Woods.

The scheme centres on the Severalls Hospital site and land next to it in north Colchester.

Developer Beazer Homes Colchester today for the first time confirmed it is keen to buy the land, owned by the Department of Health.

It hopes to seal the multi-million pound deal, which will reap enormous financial benefits for the NHS, next spring.

Negotiations are still ongoing and details of how may homes could be built will not be revealed until contracts are signed next year.

Beazer Homes stressed some buildings, including Severalls Hall, and the central playing fields will be retained if the scheme is approved by planners.

Colchester Town MP Bob Russell said: "I know it is still early days but I am very pleased and reassured with what I have seen of Beazer's proposals at this stage.

"This will be the town's largest area of development since High Woods so it is important it is carried out with the town's best interests at heart."

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