OUR bid to build a Scout centre for district children has taken a major step forward after building plans were given council approval.

The modern design for a new centre at Rhydd Covert, Bewdley, was passed by members of Wyre Forest District Council's planning (development control) committee on Tuesday night.

Architects for our £80,000 Operation Covert appeal put forward a design which was a major improvement on the Nissen Hut that was torched by vandals at Rhydd Covert last October.

The single-storey building, at the Scout camp in Kidderminster Road, will be clad in attractive timber and provide greater space for training, meetings and catering.

The planning committee were urged to pass the plans by case officer, Paul Round.

Although it was appropriate development on protected green belt land, Mr Round said attention had to be given to the 49 per cent increase in size compared to the previous centre.

The new development would be 149 square metres.

In a report to committee members he said: "The increase in size of the building above that of the original Scout hut is not considered to be 'essential' in nature and as such constitutes inappropriate development in the green belt."

Very special circumstances, needed under planning law to justify development, did, however, exist, he said.

It was an "important recreational facility" and the unusable state of the previous building made a good case for approval.

The design and position of the building would result in "minimal harm being caused to the visual amenities of the green belt, landscape or open countryside" he said.

Dave Denton, district commissioner at Kidderminster and District Scout Council, which is the applicant, said: "It finally realises our dream that this is actually able to happen and we will continue to strive to raise the money and put the building up."

Centre designer, Grace Plant, said: "Now the project can go forward as quickly as possible."