COLWALL Scout hut could be replaced with a new building for the village's youth groups.

Village rector, The Rev. Carl Attwood, who co-ordinates Colwall's youth provision group, hopes the existing Scout hut can be demolished and replaced with a larger building.

The new building would include traditional Scout facilities, a reception area where young people could gather, changing rooms and toilets.

"The Scout hut is quite dilapidated and we want to enable uniformed youth groups to continue in an appropriate setting," said Mr Attwood.

Although primarily for youth groups, the building is likely to be made available to other organisations and the public. The project may cost as much as £350,000 and the group will seek grants.

Although project is still being planned, Mr Attwood feels that progress is being made.

"It would be nice to have something done as soon as possible," he said. "We've done a lot of homework and once all the elements are agreed we'll look to proceed fairly quickly."

Parish clerk Charles Walker said the council was keen to support this kind of project: "It's difficult for our village youngsters to get to Ledbury Youth Club, and our own village hall is routinely fully booked," he said.

Speaking at a meeting of Colwall Parish Council on Wednesday, chairman Nicky Carless said she was optimistic the project would go ahead.

"The group concerned are enormously enthusiastic," she said. "It will be slow but hopefully they'll get there."

Colwall's youth provision group comprises Scout, Guide and parish council representatives.

At the council meeting, ideas for a programme of activities for young people, including DJ workshops, music events and a cooking scheme were discussed.

Members will meet with Malvern Theatres' education officer Emma Jane Benning for talks.