New homes on the 21 hectare site will include 167 detached houses, 30 semi-detached properties, 46 terraced homes, 14 town houses and 119 flats.

Cala said the development will offer a blend of property types designed to attract people in all stages of life, including affordable housing.

East Lothian Council said the approval underlines its long held Local Plan strategy to address demand for new housing.

As well as addressing a shortage of family homes in the area, the development will contribute to £10 million worth of education improvements, including the creation of a brand new primary school and enhancements to Knox Academy, St Marys RC Primary. The Aubigny Centre will also be extended.

The plans also include creating a park that will run along both banks of the Letham Burn, including footpaths and a playing field. An open area of the site will also feature a full size football pitch, with a pavilion changing area.

The Edinburgh-based house-builder is aiming to start construction on the site in early 2016.

Derek Lawson, land director with Cala Homes (East), said: “We are extremely pleased that the careful process of community consultation and working closely with planning officers has now come to fruition.

“We have listened to feedback during the entire process, taken that on board and reflected it in the designs which have been approved. We now look forward to delivering a development which will offer a range of housing, is appropriate for the setting and benefits Haddington.”