Work is set to start in the heart of Great Missenden on a £3 million interactive experience, celebrating the literature and life's work of children's favourite Roald Dahl.

Planning chiefs at Chiltern District Council unanimously backed an application to turn the former NatWest bank, at 81 High Street, into a dedicated museum, complete with offices, cafe and gift shop. Some residents had raised objections to the plans, citing parking problems, but members of the planning committee dismissed protests as "ridiculous".

Cllr Nicholas Rose (Con, Ballinger and South Heath), chairman, echoed the sentiments of the committee when he described the proposed development as a "catalyst for the regeneration of Great Missenden".

Speaking at Thursday's meeting, Cllr Michael Batt (Con, Penn) added: "The village has suffered a great deal in the past. I'm appalled at the objections, and they are not really worthy of any note. I support this application and I'm sure I join all my colleagues in wishing it every success."

The project will combine the story of the author's life with imaginative displays simulating creativity and love of the written word.

Amanda Conquy, secretary of the trustees of the museum, believes once completed in autumn 2004, the museum will be a testament to the enduring popularity of the children's author based in the village where he lived. Making representations on behalf of the Dahl family , she told councillors Great Missenden was in desperate need of revitalisation and a Roald Dahl museum would provide it.

Much of the £3 million has been acquired through fundraising, including a £250,000 donation from Prime Minister Tony Blair and wife Cherie, who held a charity dinner in support of the scheme last June.

April 28, 2003 10:30