SUPPORT has been given to a malting firm hoping to build a new factory in a neighbouring village.

EDME is set to put forward a planning application for a purpose-built factory and separate business units on land at Horsley Cross, which currently has permission for a business park.

Mistley Parish Council chairman Martin Rayner, said: “As a parish council we have supported Horsley Cross as a site for some time.

“We saw Metin Fevzi from EDME and he was quite honest and open about what is going on. This is a positive thing because it will mean employment.

“The site here is obviously unmanageable and it’s good if a company can thrive - good on them.”

Carlo Guglielmi, Tendring Council for Mistley and Tendring, which covers Horsley Cross, said if it goes ahead this could be the biggest commercial development in that area for decades.

He added: “In this case we’ve got an old, established firm with an unblemished record.

“Their produce is unbelievable. They are one of the biggest employers in the area.

“One of the questions will be what will happen to the current site, but they aren’t thinking about that at the moment.

“I’m led to believe they have their foot on the pedal and I support their decision to stay locally.”

Mr Guglielmi said building at Horsley Cross has always been hamstrung by the need for services like electricity and water on the land.

He said: “It was only going to be if a mega firm like EDME could take up the cost of the services. I take my hat off to them.”