Major plans for a new housing estate and football stadium have take a significant step - as councillors agree to send it to the development committee.

Southend Council agreed to progress the plans for the new stadium, hotel and conference centre and homes at Fossetts Farm.

The plan for 850 new homes for Southend Council are a game-changer for the plan and the multi-billionaire property tycoons, the Dellal family, are now linked with the huge new development.

Roots Hall – Blues’ current home - will also be redeveloped into 502 new homes for rent - also under an agreement with the council - once the football club has relocated to Fossetts Farm.