A company has launched a fresh bid to return to Halstead after being refused planning permission earlier this year.

Brands Direct, which is currently based in Felsted, wants to relocate its head office to the building formerly occupied by Mellons DIY, in Kings Road, Halstead.

The food importing business had been based in Greenstead Green until moving to Felsted three years ago, with half the workforce still living in Halstead.

Eight employees would be based at the new office, according to the planning application.

A previous application, which also included the creation of three two-bedroom cottages on the site, was refused in October due to road safety and parking concerns.