DROITWICH Spa's new Lido development was given the go ahead by councillors last night (Tuesday).

The plans for the 21st century Lido were put before Wychavon District Council's executive board before moving immediately to a consecutively held meeting of the full council.

Members agreed unanimously to proceed with the redevelopment. The scheme retains a rectangular saltwater pool, which will be a maximum of 1.5m deep and which shallows to 10cm at the beach end.

There will also be terraced areas for sunbathing, a caf serving the park and Lido and updated changing facilities and toilets are also part of the scheme.

The council has also approved Wychavon Leisure Community Association Ltd to operate the complex.

Once planning permission and conservation area consent has been secured. Work is hoped to start on the site in April.

Council leader Martin Jennings said: "I am delighted that this council, after years of negotiations with other parties, has supported this scheme which has been drawn up by our own officers with Wychavon Leisure staff.

"We still have hurdles to get over, but residents and visitors are now significantly closer to being able to enjoy a 21st century Lido."