Plans for a modern building to replace run-down Headington Baptist Church in Oxford have been given the go-ahead, despite concerns of city council officers and some residents.

Members of the church's 130-strong congregation, who have already pledged £300,000 towards the scheme, were "amazed and delighted" with the council's decision on June 4 to approve the plans.

Planning officers and some residents living near the church said they were worried the £1m three-storey building would look out of place in the Old High Street conservation area.

Councillors were recommended to refuse the plans, but Quarry and Risinghurst councillor Philip Allison called for the advice to be rejected.

The matter was referred to the council's strategic development control committee where all but one of the 11 members supported the plans.

The Rev James Bloice Smith said afterwards he was "over the moon" and looking forward to seeing the project built. But some residents living near the church were unhappy with the council's decision.

Sarah King, chairman of Friends of Old Headington, said: "We are not against the redevelopment of the church and, indeed understand it is necessary.

"But this design is far too dominant to fit in with neighbouring properties."

Headington Hill councillor Maureen Christian, who voted for the plans to be approved, said designs for the new building should be applauded.

She said: "We should welcome decent examples of modern architecture such as this. It will be splendid."