WEST Mercia police will be allowed to build a new access road and gate house at its Hindlip headquarters - despite it being in the green belt.

The decision to allow the work has been welcomed by the head of West Mercia Constabulary.

Chief Constable Paul West said plans for a new access road would improve security, give the headquarters a greater presence and reaffirm the force's pride in serving the community.

Wychavon district councillors gave planning permission for the road and a new junction at Pershore Lane, a gatehouse within the complex, a visitors' car park and signage to make the entrance more prominent.

The gatehouse, which visitors will report to in future, will offer greater security and will be locked at night and during security situations. The scheme also means a public right of way on the route of the new road will have to be diverted. Members of Hindlip, Martin Hussingtree and Salwarpe parish council had objected to the plans saying they would destroy valued rural characteristics and the integrity of the green belt. They also fear the plans are phase one of more development which will lead to further loss of the green belt.

The council's conservation officer also raised concerns about the impact on the historic landscaped park but officers said, on balance, they were happy with plans.

At the planning meeting, West Mercia's head of estates Jim Stobie told councillors the access improvements were necessary for safety, particularly for rapid response motorway vehicles and firearms teams which currently have to negotiate the narrow Hindlip Lane. Mr Stobie described Hindlip Hall as a "hidden gem" even though it was a national centre for excellence and said: "It's important we have a visual presence which reflects that status."

Speaking exclusively to your Worcester News, Mr West said the improvements would make a statement about the HQ.

"We are a major employer and we've got good reasons to be proud of the site," he said. "Hopefully it will lead to public reassurance that the police are there."

About 750 people work shifts at Hindlip Hall and a further 300 people can be at the site's training school.

Mr Scobie also reassured residents that disruption on Pershore Lane, which is currently affected by improvements to the Worcester Warriors' Sixways ground, would be minimised.

Work will start by February next year and will be completed by the end of 2009.