A VISITOR centre costing £1million will be built on Walton’s Naze cliffs after Tendring Council gave the plans the green light.

Essex Wildlife Trust says the centre will boost tourism and provide an educational resource on the cliffs.

The centre will include an observation room with views across the stunning Naze landscape and education rooms for visitors to learn about the geological, biological and cultural significance of the area.

Claire Cadman, project manager, said: “We are pleased and excited to press ahead with this.

“It will be a great resource for Walton and provide something different for the town all year round.

“People already enjoy the Naze but there is so much more potential.

“This addition could make visits to the cliffs even more rewarding.

The visitor centre will be build near the Naze Tower .

Essex Wildlife Trust still needs funding for the project and is waiting on the result of a lottery bid.

John Halls, town councillor, said: “This is the best thing to happen to our town for years.

“This is a seasonal place but the new centre will be open all year round.

“Hopefully it will bring people flooding in and really boost Walton.”

A petition was handed to Tendring Council planning committee with 119 signatures of people opposing the plans.

Opponent Anna Molen, of Old Hall Lane, Walton, said: “We are very disappointed.

“I can’t believe the council has passed this when there are so many objections from local people.

“We don’t think this is necessary and are concerned restrictions will be placed on a beautiful green space.”