Trilogy Developments, which is behind the masterplan, claims the development could eventually provide up to 1,200 new jobs.

The decision allows Trilogy to begin demolishing the foundry, which had been there for 126 years before Ford shifted production to Eastern Europe. A demolition contractor will be appointed very shortly.

The amended scheme on the edge of the town includes a 500-space car park, and landscaping and also outline permission for offices industrial buildings and parkland.

Planning approval was also given for a hotel of up to 120 bedrooms near Leamington station, redesigned road junction and cycle routes and revised landscaping.

London based Tweeds is project managing the job, with Waterman’s Birmingham office acting as structural consultant.