A £165 million bid to link two main roads in Colchester and widen the A12 has been backed by the Government.

Housing bosses have today announced two schemes - to link the A133 and A120 east of Colchester and to widen the A12 near to Marks Tey - had passed the initial tests.

The detailed business cases for both proposals will now be examined before final decisions on each are reached.

Both bids are linked to plans to create two new towns, to the west and east of Colchester, in a bid to meet ambitious housing targets.

But neither development is without controversy, with initial plans for both being heavily criticised.

It is, however, widely accepted the proposed road improvements would have to take place before either new town is built.

Paul Smith, Colchester Council leader, said: “I’m absolutely delighted the Government has once again signalled its support for our work to deliver vital new jobs and Government housing targets in north Essex, and to enhance and maintain Colchester as a welcoming place for investment and business.

"While today’s announcement is a step towards the bids being successful, it is also testament to the commitment of this council and our partners to attract substantial new investment to help facilitate the infrastructure-first delivery of new garden communities in our area, as well as providing improved transport for the people of Colchester.

"Collaboration is absolutely vital, if we are to continue to develop sustainable solutions to the transport issues that impact residents, the environment and our local economy.”

Today's announcement comes less than two months after £5.5 million was allocated to the Northern Gateway scheme.

That cash will pay for infrastructure improvements in the north of Colchester as 300 homes - plus 260 care home spaces - are built on the Mill Road recreation ground.

The two schemes are part of a package of bids to the Government's Housing Infrastructure Fund which were submitted by Essex County Council.