EVESHAM Marina could have a much-needed facelift after the town council approved revised plans for its redevelopment - but only just.

Councillors were divided on whether to support the plans for the Kings Road site after a vote at Monday's (July 8) meeting resulted in seven members being for and seven being against the plans.

Town Mayor Diana Raphael used her casting vote in favour of the slightly revised £1m expansion, which would now create a two-storey block with offices and service units, as well as more than 70 parking spaces.

The original plans were thrown out by both town and district councils, but now the revised submission will be passed on to Wychavon District Council, recommended for approval.

At the meeting, Councillor Maggie Stephenson, said members should take into account that it was already a busy marina, but the need to develop leisure and tourism, as well as enhance the river, was stronger.

Coun John Smith agreed: "I cannot see anything wrong it and support its approval."

Coun Andy Dyke declared an interest and did not vote, but warned that the people using the marina would not bring trade to Evesham.

He also said they would come to the marina in cars, bring their own food and take trips up and down the river, ignoring the town.

Owner of Evesham Marina, Tom Smith, of Wakering Engineering Company, said the only change that had been made to the plans was to move the office block to create a two-storey building.

He said he had also confirmed to them that the service units would not be used as shops. This was a concern of district councillors when the plans were first debated last month.

"We met with the planners and told them to tell us what they didn't like about the plans.

"So we followed their guidelines and suggestions and between us we've reached a plan that is to everyone's satisfaction."

Wychavon District Council's planning department said the marina plans were due to come before the committee on Thursday, August 8.