A NEW hotel could be built on the outskirts of a town if plans are approved.

Brevan Homes has submitted an outline planning application to Braintree Council for a 42-bedroom hotel in Long Green, Cressing, near Galleys Corner.

The existing building and storage buildings would be demolished and a two-and-a-half storey building constructed.

Agent for the applicant Mark Jackson said the venture could create 30 to 40 new jobs.

He said there was demand for the hotel, which he believed would mainly be used for overnight stays by Stansted Airport users, business people and those visiting family and friends.

The planning statement with the application said: “The hotel will support the local economy, increasing inward investment and employment.”

It added how it would support the council in widening the choice and style of hotel accommodation in the district, and would help it support the 2012 Olympics.

Mr Jackson said it was hoped the hotel, which could be up and running in 12 to 18 months if plans are approved, would achieve a three star rating.

It would also include a 42-space car park. A footpath from the hotel to Galleys Corner and a cycle way would be constructed and bus stop improvements would also be made.

Despite another two hotels nearby, Premier Inn and the Mulberry Tree, Mr Jackson said the demand was there, adding how the Premier Inn was often booked up well in advance.

But Lynette Flint, district councillor for Cressing and Stisted at Braintree Council, said the village of Cressing was getting “saturated” with hotels, and another would make traffic on Galleys Corner even worse. Business leaders supported the plans with Nigel Harley, councillor responsible for enterprise and culture at Braintree Council, saying it was “encouraging news”.

Brian Cutmore, chairman of Braintree Business Council, said: “I think the business community would welcome more availability of beds.”

An outline application was submitted last year, but withdrawn to address issues, such as landscaping at the front.