A swimming pool for South Woodham Ferrers is a little closer to becoming reality after County Hall finally promised a major £750,000 boost for the project.

The donation will enhance the scheme's bid for National Lottery funding after receiving £100,000 from South Woodham Ferrers Town Council and £750,000 from Chelmsford Borough Council.

Lib Dem county councillor Tom Smith-Hughes said: "I am delighted other parties have agreed with the Liberal Democrats that the people of South Woodham deserve this council's contribution."

Tory county councillor Eileen Mickelborough added: "Persistent and insistent efforts have been made over the years to achieve this. At last they have paid off."

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