THREE big names could be part of a major new development in Colchester which could create more than 100 jobs.

Churchmanor Estates has submitted plans for development on two acres of land at Stane Park at Tollgate.

If approved, it could see Nando’s, Bella Italia and a McMullen pub built on part of the site.

It would sit on the southern end of Stane Park off the new Western Approach and will be opposite the Sainsbury’s superstore.

This would be adjacent to the proposed Wyvern Farm residential and commercial employment development, where an application has been submitted for 358 homes by Persimmon Homes.

It would also be next to a 20 acre site which could be developed as a leisure and retail centre, Tollgate Village.

Stephen Clark, managing director of Churchmanor Estates, said: “We have lined up three high calibre occupiers in McMullen, Bella Italia and Nando’s, who will add to the choice of restaurants where the growing population of Stanway can meet, eat and relax.

“The framework vision for the future of Tollgate is for a vibrant, urban district which has a balance of high-quality employment, retail and leisure proposals and our plans for Stane Park are a good fit with that vision.

“The new pub and restaurants will be a great place for social and community interaction and they are excellently located within close proximity to residential and retail areas. Importantly, 140 new jobs will be created.”

An exhibition event has been held for residents and councillors and if plans are approved, building work could begin in the spring and will take nine months to complete.

The application was submitted as consultation for nearby Tollgate Village came to an end.

The Tollgate Partnership wants to build a multi-million pound retail and leisure park on 20 acres of land, including the site of the former Sainsbury’s store.

It estimates it will create more than 1,000 jobs and bring £13.7million to the economy.

Mr Clark added: “We are pleased to be part of the future of the Tollgate Village and support all plans to make the area a place where people can work, shop and relax.

“Certainly, in the creation of the Tollgate Vision Document, developed in conjunction with Colchester Borough Council, it was clear the public response was favourable to providing a more enriching experience at Tollgate.

“Our proposals for a pub and two restaurants, compliment this vision as do the concept schemes proposed by the Tollgate Partnership.”

Trevor Manning, Stanway parish councillor, said: “Personally I think the more commercial development we get up on Stanway the better.”

Mr Manning said with 1,500 homes being built in the area more jobs needed to be provided for the area.