A Runwell playgroup has been saved from closure after councillors backed relocation plans despite a storm of protest.

Peter Pans Pre-School Playgroup, in Church End Lane, had feared it would have to wind up if its plans for a temporary classroom were rejected.

It was desperate for new facilities after being forced to leave its home in Runwell County Primary School.

Chelmsford councillors last night decided to back their officers' recommendation to approve the plans for a classroom on the playing field in Church End Lane after much debate.

Councillor Eileen Mickelborough (Con, South Woodham Ferrers and Danbury) said: "We had considerable discussion on the plans but decided to grant planning permission.

"There were objections and problems over the access. It is green belt land but my view is that the site is a tiny bit of land tucked away between gardens.

"To grant permission on a green belt site was an exception but I feel it was justified in this case."

Residents and Runwell Parish Council had expressed strong concerns about noise and traffic disruption.

Staff at Homeholly House, a residential home in Church End Lane, said they were particularly worried about access to the proposed site cutting across its car park.

Regional estate manager Cynthia Gibbs said: "Our main concern relates to children being dropped off with elderly people walking around. This not only involves the danger aspect but also the inconvenience for our residents driving in and out of the house."

The playgroup wrote to Chelmsford Council urging it to take up the scheme, saying it would more than likely have to close if permission wasn't granted.

Its seven staff look after 15-18 children per session and have had up to 50 youngsters on their books in the past.

The group claims uncertainty over its future has cut numbers to 32 - despite large waiting lists at other schools in the area.

A spokesman for the playgroup said before yesterday's meeting: "We do realise the placing of a relocatable building on this land may cause a small amount of disruption.

"We are sure this disruption will not go on for very long and will be kept to a minimum."

The new classroom will be a temporary measure until a more permanent home can be found for the playgroup.

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