PLANS to develop Fingringhoe Ranges for military operations have taken another step forward.

Blueprints submitted to Colchester Council on behalf of the Ministry of Defence are seeking to build two 600 metre firing ranges with eight metre high stop-butts at the site.

It comes as firing operations move from Middlewick Ranges amid a row over plans for up to 1,000 homes set to be built there.

Further works submitted in the application include two control buildings, a range support building and associated demolition and site clearance works.

Furthermore, a car park, turning areas and drainage are to be factored in.