The factory, which US food group Kraft pledged to keep open when it took over the UK chocolate maker two years ago, was sold to Taylor Wimpey for a price reported to be significantly north of £6m.
Plans for the 220 acre site include 700 homes, a nursing home, a hotel, a restaurant and a primary school. The sports pitches, originally provided by the chocolate company for its employees, will be protected from development and a new club provided, the housebuilder has said.
Taylor Wimpey said it will undertake local consultation before publishing final plans.
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