An empty factory site will get a new lease of life after a masterplan to build a 200 homes and a care home passed the first hurdle.

Braintree Council’s local development framework sub-committee supported the blueprint for the former Premdor and Rockways site in Swan Street, Sible Hedingham.

The full council will have the final say, and if approved, the masterplan will be used as guidance for future planning applications to develop the land.

A 0.2ha parcel of land has also been set aside for a new doctor’s surgery or health centre to serve patients in Sible and Castle Hedingham.