PLANS for a new mini-industrial estate which would be a “£29million boost to the economy” and create more than 400 new jobs are set to be given the green light.

Under plans by “Lucton Educational Management Solutions”, a piece of land off Sandy Crescent and Star Lane, in Great Wakering, will be transformed into a “factory and office space”.

Rochford Council’s development committee has been recommended to approve the plans at a meeting this week, despite 62 objections being submitted to the council by residents.

If approved, the plans are expected to create more than 400 jobs in the construction and operation phases of the business units, as well as supply chain roles.

Plans show five buildings on the site alongside 206 parking spaces.

Rochford councillor Danielle Belton said: “All developments, especially large-scale ones need careful consideration.

“I welcome the development committee debating this application in the coming days to ensure careful consideration is given to the pros and cons.

“I am always of the opinion that if an application is successful, we should be encouraging the use of local labour.

“And I would hope that the employment this project would create, would benefit those closest to the site, as well as any social value investment.”

According to the documents, during the construction phase of the development there would be 155 direct construction jobs and 89 indirect jobs per month over 18 months, generating £14 million for the economy.

During the operational phase of the business units, it is expected there would be 180 fulltime jobs on-site, producing £10.5million for the economy annually, of these there would be 163 jobs for the Rochford area.

It also states the supply chain would benefit from 92 indirect jobs supporting the local economy, contributing £5 million annually.

Despite the boost to the economy, nearby residents who have raised a range of concerns, including highways and infrastructure issues, environmental issues, and impacts on homes and residential areas.