A £21MILLION centre for mental health patients at the old Rochford Hospital has won the support of planning councillors.

Rochford District Council's planning services committee agreed in principle to the scheme to provide mental health services on the site and delegated the final decision to head of planning, Shaun Scrutton.

The plans will now be discussed in consultation with ward councillors.

Up to 111 beds are likely to be created at the Rochford Hospital site if the proposals are approved.

Published Tuesday, December 6, 2005