STAFF at a Catshill animal centre have been celebrating after it received planning permission for a major refurbishment.

Bromsgrove District Council has been given permission to the Blue Cross animal adoption centre, in Wildmoor Lane, for the new facility which will feature revamped modern and spacious dog kennels, a new cattery, dedicated maternity units for puppies and kittens and a veterinary clinic for pets owned by townsfolk on a low income.

There will also be housing for new arrivals, a dedicated behaviour assessment area, and a refurbished reception area.

The centre would continue to rehome cats and dogs, and provide vet treatment for pets in a temporary clinic, until the new site is complete.

It is hoped work will begin in the autumn, and be completed by late summer 2015.

Last year the centre cared for more than 600 homeless dogs and cats, but the new kennels and cattery offer the opportunity for the charity to rehome more pets and provide a more comfortable environment for them during their stay.

Now the plans have been given the green light the charity is launching a local fundraising appeal to raise money to fund the work.

Bromsgrove Blue Cross centre manager Neil Edwards said: “We are delighted to hear that planning permission has been granted. "Homeless pets staying at the centre deserve better accommodation while they are waiting for a new home.

"The new facilities will be purpose-built and modern, meaning we’ll be able to provide the highest level of care."

“Now our plans have been given the green light, we will be raising funds for the renovations. If anyone in the local community would like to get involved, we’d love to hear from them.”

Blue Cross centres receive no Government funding, relying entirely on public donations.

To make a donation call the centre on 0124 453 3130, email bromsgrove@bluecross.org.uk, visit bluecross.org.uk, or join the Bromsgrove Blue Cross group on Facebook.