PLANS to demolish a former factory and build social housing in Harwich have been backed by councillors.

Colne Housing wants to build 27 homes for people on the Tendring Council housing waiting list.

The former Bernard Uniforms factory, in Main Road, which has sat unused and derelict since it closed in 2007, has been a magnet for vandals.

If approved, the housing association would knock down the former factory and build two one-bedroom and six two-bedroom flats, as well as 12 two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom houses.

Harwich Town Council discussed the plans at their latest meeting on Wednesday.

Councillor David Flavell said he was pleased to see an application submitted for the site.