Businesss were today celebrating after a "landmark" decision was made which will secure jobs for Tendring.

The Horsley Cross Partnership is made up of seven businesses in Harwich, which are behind a blueprint for an industrial park at Horsley Cross, Mistley.

Last night, after much debate, Tendring Council's development control committee went against planning officers' recommendations to refuse the plans. Instead, they voted in favour of the application, stating it was mindful to approve it.

The application will come back to the committee at a later date so conditions can be agreed.

Gary Rowe, a director of Express Transport Systems, one of the companies in the partnership, said he was elated.

He said: "Common sense has prevailed, and jobs will be protected. The future is definitely brighter.

"All we have ever wanted to do is move ahead and employ people. It is a landmark decision."

The plans for a 10.7-hectare plot include an 80-bedroom hotel and children's day nursery plus six business plots on land south of the A120 and west of the B1035 at Horsley Cross.