A FAMILY-run business which specialises in the restoration of classic cars has unveiled ambitious plans to build a state of the art showroom.

Clark & Carter Restorations Ltd is seeking planning approval to expand its facilities at Shardloes Business Park in Church Road, Cressing.

The company, which has been running for more than 35 years, helps restore and service classic, rare and specialist cars including Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Porsche, Aston Martin, Ferrari and other rare models.

The planned expansion would see the a new showroom and reception area built for customers, along with extra storage facilities, a canteen, bathrooms and a new office.

Discussions over the expansion began back in 2014 but concerns over the impact the development would have on the area saw Clark and Carter Restorations go back to the drawing board.

Having now addressed some initial concerns raised, the firm has submitted a full planning application in an effort to get the green light from Braintree Council's planning officers.

In a statement accompanying the plans, the applicant says: "The company has built up an excellent reputation for its restorations and services, having won numerous awards for its work and repeat

business from a number of important customers, both within the UK and abroad.

"The Company wishes to expand and to optimize the facilities and resources currently on-site, which are inefficient and overcrowded in certain areas.

"The proposed new accommodation and the much needed space it will provide, will help safeguard the future success of Clark and Carter Restorations for the foreseeable future."

Clark and Carter Restorations says it currently employs 30 full time staff, most of which live within the Braintree district.

It is unclear if the expansion may lead to an increase in the firms workforce.