A CONTROVERSIAL private hospital in Bromsgrove has moved a step nearer to re-opening under new owners.

Bromsgrove District Councillors granted planning permission for the refurbishment work already underway at the former Bromsgrove Private Hospital, Tardebigge, at the meeting of the planning committee on Monday.

The Birmingham-based Edgbaston Medical Group acquired the site, derelict for four years after it closed with massive debts, and intend to develop it into a larger hospital than before, with new two-storey offices and a larger entrance and operating theatre.

In a report to the committee, officers raised concerns over the site in the Green Belt and overshadowing of neighbouring property, but judged the plans acceptable.