BUILDING work on the new Southend United Stadium, which will take more than six years to complete, is expected to start in the new year.

It is estimated the scheme will generate £500million for the local economy and create more than 1,000 new jobs.

The phased development includes plans to build 502 homes at Roots Hall once the stadium is ready for the club to move into.

This plan was also approved at Monday’s development control meeting.

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Ian Gilbert, leader of the council, welcomed the two schemes. He said: “It is excellent news for the club and for Southend. It’s something that has been talked about for a very long time.

“Aprart from the secretary of state’s approval being in place, we look forward to work starting in the new year. Contractors are all lined up ready to start as soon as they get the formal go ahead.”

Southend United chairman Ron Martin has promised £15 million towards mitigating traffic congestion but some had reservations over the plans.

Speaking at the meeting, resident Mr Walker, said: “The proposed location of this stadium and its associated commercial development would place enormous demands on Priory Crescent and East Street and it is unsuitable in that it is much further from any residential areas.

“Football supporters will be less likely to walk to games and car use would be increased. Should Southend United ever attract 21,000 supporters to a home game then that would imply that two hours leading up to the kick off many thousands of extra cars would clog up what are already bottlenecks.”

Faye Evans, Conservative councillor for West Leigh ward, added: “Southend is one of the most densely populated urban areas outside London. We cannot accommodate expansion at this level. We haven’t the space, the roads, schools or GPs “When Queensway is built traffic will be directed down Sutton road ending up in Eastern Avenue. More congestion. Are our residents ever considered in our town?