Plans to build a new enterprise centre, which could create up to 150 jobs a year, have been given the go-ahead.

The three storey centre, on the new Horizon 120 Business and Innovation Park in Great Notley, were approved after proposals met criteria of the planning framework.

The aim is to support local start-ups and help small businesses develop and grow.

Councillor John McKee said the fast moving process if a 'tribute' to the project and a 'significant achievement'.

He said: "“We are creating a modern and energy efficient centre with workspaces and facilities which will encourage collaboration and deliver innovation.

"This is an investment which will improve prospects for small businesses, create quality jobs for residents and help with the recovery of the local economy.

"To get to this stage, in less than six months, is a tribute to the project team and a significant achievement."

The centre will include shared meeting rooms, work and conference spaces, training facilities and offices.

Plans also include an event space with a roof terrace overlooking the country park.

A café or restaurant, with a plaza area, will also serve employees working at the park and residents living in the area.

Gareth Mason, Divisional Director at Stride Treglown Architects, said: “Once completed, the Enterprise Centre will provide varied and flexible workspaces for the sustainable growth of local businesses in a quality environment sensitively designed to foster wellbeing and collaboration.

"Businesses based here will share state of the art facilities to work, make, meet, and share whilst feeling closely connected to carefully landscaped grounds that blend into the verdant Great Notley Park."

The project is being paid for in part by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership which has allocated £7 million towards the scheme from the Government’s Getting Building Fund.

Building work is expected to start early spring.

For more information visit horixon120.com.