A £70,000 cashpot will be used to narrow down options for a new enterprise centre to help boost business across the Maldon district.

Maldon District Council was awarded the cash from Magnox and Essex County Council to move the plans for the centre forward.

The money will be used for a study to suggest possible sites, what the design for the centre would be and how much building works would cost.

If completed the centre would support new start-ups and help existing businesses to grow.

The council was awarded £60,000 from the Magnox Socio Economic Grant Fund and £10,000 from Essex County Council.

Nautilus Associates has been appointed to undertake the study.

Mark Durham, leader of Maldon District Council, said: “We are pleased to see the development of an enterprise centre progressing.

“This second stage will identify a suitable site or sites which could be developed, identify the type of facilities and support that businesses need, as well as building a business plan for the successful and sustainable operation of the centre.”

Businesses across Maldon and the Dengie will now been contacted for an “in-depth consultation” to influence what services the centre will provide.

Penny Channer, chairman of planning and licensing committee and member of the Bradwell Legacy Partnership, added: “This is an exciting opportunity to support the local economy by providing a facility that is bespoke for the area.”

A similar project was in operation in Burnham for two years until it was forced to close after issues arose over funding.

Dengie Enterprise Support, was set up in March 2015 and funded through a Magnox grant, but was closed in May last year while the council awaited the decision from Magnox on whether or not funding would continue for another two years.

To be included in the survey email MaldonEnterpriseCentre@nautilus.uk.com.