A SCHEME for replacing the Claremont House Pharmacy bus shelter is closer - but so is the prospect of a large bill.

Malvern Town Council has agreed to approach the firm's owner, Max Falconer, and ask for a legally binding statement that he does not own either the wall or the shelter attached to it, allowing the Council to claim ownership.

It will then appoint a surveyor to draw up a scheme to replace the shelter, in consultation with the planning authorities and Mr Falconer.

Last week's management committee meeting also decided to ask Mr Falconer for a strip of land in order to set the bus shelter back and for free access to his property in order to do the work. It also heard that water mains are believed to run underneath the bus shelter, which could have a big impact on the project costs.

"My estimates of £20,000 is going to be nearer the mark than some members were inclined to believe," warned town clerk Stuart McDonough.

The Council says the shelter is in a poor state of repair and is concerned about the danger to the public. It has ordered it to be propped up while a longer term scheme is worked. The work will be done this weekend.

Mr Falconer said he was prepared to consider donating a piece of land but wanted to be sure what the Council was planning to do first.