CONCERNS over jobs and road links were raised at a public meeting held to debate a major leisure and housing development.

Ramsey and Parkeston Parish Council held the special meeting to look at the proposals for the Harwich Valley complex, set for land between Stour Close in Dovercourt and the A120, which sits on the border of Dovercourt and Ramsey.

The plans would include 297 homes, a six-screen cinema, pub, restaurants and drive-throughs, as well as business warehouses and offices.

Despite villagers and councillors raising concerns, it was agreed to support the development, if a list of demands are met.

Councillor David Smith said: “After a lively debate, it was agreed to support the application on condition that the highway works and improvements, including a new roundabout off the A120, the employment units and retail units are developed first before the housing and the exit to Stour Close is strictly limited to emergency vehicles."

Tendring Council has the final say on the plans.