Developer Bellway Homes' plans will see the redevelopment of the 3.99 hectare site to provide a number of new buildings reaching between two and seven storeys to comprise 437 new homes.
The existing 1912 building on the site will be refurbished to create new office space. The water tower and the power house on the site will also be retained and refurbished.
The Council's planning officers said in their report recommending approval (34-page / 229KB PDF) that the proposal "largely complies" with the Council's aspirations for the development site as set out in the Chelmsford Town Centre Area Action Plan and informal planning guidance published by the Council.
"It would bring a welcome regeneration of this significant site, increase connectivity, make a significant contribution to housing supply and the potential for good levels of local employment close to the city centre," the report said.
The planning permission is subject to a section 106 agreement between Bellway and the Council under which Bellway will be required to provide 33.6% affordable housing as well as £2.8 million worth of planning contributions.
