Plans to build a new £3m nursing home and care centre for the elderly in Wantage have been given the seal of approval by councillors.

The Vale of White Horse District Council's development control committee agreed that the council's chief executive in consultation with the committee chairman and vice-chairman could grant planning permission for the 50-bedroom centre on the site of the former Wantage Health Centre on Garston Lane, subject to a number of conditions being agreed, including landscaping and the materials to be used.

Jenny Hannaby, a trustee of the Wantage Nursing Home Charitable Trust, said she was delighted with the decision.

She said: "I am very pleased we have taken another positive step towards the commencement of the project.

"I look forward to July 11 when, now we have planning permission, we will be meeting relevant parties to sign and seal the deal."

Mrs Hannaby said money was starting to flow into the appeal to raise £800,000 to buy the site and work was continuing on fundraising ideas.

She said: "It is a huge project to undertake but I have every confidence."

For more information about the project log onto www.wnhct.org or call 01235 772778.