A derelict office block, often the target of arsonists, is to get a new lease of live as a mini housing estate.

Blackwater Housing Association will build 11 low-cost homes at the site known as the Old Poultry Market, in North Station Road, Colchester.

The building - set on fire three times this year - and a warehouse known as the Stock Exchange, which sells antiques, will be knocked down to make way for the homes.

The Braintree-based association wants a detached home facing North Station Road, between the Riverside Hotel and Emmanuel Evangelical Church.

And behind this four homes from a new access, and two terraces fronting the River Colne.

A riverside walk would be incorporated into the plans.

Councillors at last night's development control sub committee voted for the scheme, subject to more detailed plans.

Ken Cooke (Lab, Castle) said: "This can only be a great improvement to the area."

After a fire in January local traders claimed homeless people were risking their lives by lighting fires to keep warm in the buildings.

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