A PROJECT to build a new £750,000 community facility in Droitwich Spa has taken a major step forward.

Plans to extend and redevelop the town’s Salvation Army church hall, off Ombersley Way, have been approved by Wychavon District Council.

People behind the scheme are now inviting residents to a public meeting to find out more about the project that aims to provide a state-of-the-art town centre facility for everyone to use.

The plans include a new home for the popular Salvation Army Pre-School and a place for residents to go for help, advice and support on a number of issues, including assistance finding work.

A new main hall could also be used to offer a day care centre for the elderly and after school clubs for youngsters.

The Salvation Army is now busy fundraising to help make the proposals a reality. The organisation has applied to an international foundation for grant support and is currently awaiting the decision.

Salvation Army members across the country are raising money and are well on the way to achieving their target of £75,000 towards the scheme.

The public meeting to highlight the plans is set to take place at the Salvation Army community hall from 2 - 3.30pm on Saturday (October 6).

Kerry Harris, church administrator for the site, said: “This meeting is being held due to the plans being approved by the council. We hope to show people the three phases of work that will see the current site refurbished and another facility added.

“We hope to still run everything that is already on offer but we also want to grow. We hope to provide new things for the community such as musical programmes, evening clubs and jobs advice sessions.

“This project is a reaction to the need that is in the town. We are getting more and more people turning to us for support.”