ESSEX County Cricket Club has finally been given approval to redevelop its Chelmsford ground and secure its long term future.

The Secretary of State gave the application the all clear, with a small reduction in the number of houses approved.

The approved proposal is for a new cricket pavilion, cricket centre and stands to accommodate 8,000 spectators, a multi storey car park, retail space and 413 residential units.

The club says it is “delighted” with the decision.

Following the go-ahead for the £40million scheme, the club issued a statement.

It said: “The letter from the Secretary of State recognises the economic and community benefits, not only to the Club, but also the town centre.

“The Club and its development partner MCD are closely studying the full transcript of the Inspector’s report and the letter from the Secretary of State so they can fully understand all the detailed aspects and conditions of the planning permission.”

The application was called in by the Secretary of State in March last year because of objections by the Environment Agency as part of the town centre site is on a flood plain.

An inquiry took place, but the decision was delayed because of the general election.

Strong objection was raised by residents living near to the ground at the inquiry to 13 residential units planned at the site entrance from New Writtle Street, but under the amended permission, this is reduced to just two town houses.

Neil Gulliver, councillor responsible for planning and building control, said he was delighted at the decision and that the county ground would remain in the centre of the town.

He said: “It is important to keep this large area of green.”

In his report the Secretary of State says he has given “very careful consideration” to the effect of flood risk on and from the proposed development.

He agreed the application had taken proper account of that risk. He added that “squeezing in” the proposed 13 dwelling block next to New Writtle Street entrance would have had a significantly harmful effect on residents in Parkside Court.