PLANS to build Western Europe’s largest cider mill in Herefordshire were today approved by councillors.

A new carbon neutral plant in Ledbury will create 200 jobs as well as safeguard existing ones at Roberston's Ledbury Preserves - which was due to close this August - once transformation of its factory is complete.

Applicants Universal Beverages, who have a 15-year contract with Bulmers, will add a warehouse, concentrate store and 24 tanks to create facilities capable of handling 15,000 tonnes of fruit a week.

Approval was subject to conditions laid out by planning officers before full permission is granted at a later date.