The ‘spiritual home of worldwide scouting’ could be getting a new museum in the shape of a colourful ‘big tent’.

Tate Harmer architects beat off stiff competition with their winning design for The Scout Association (TSA), based in Gilwell Park, Chingford.

The TSA is applying for Heritage Lottery Funding for the project, set for completion in 2020 pending planning approval.

The design features a 15-metre-high timber clock and bell tower “festooned with scout neckerchiefs” in celebration of the famous scarf worn by scouts worldwide.

The tent will be built from coated polyester panels, providing a canopy over the site’s central gathering space, Camp Square.

Scout leaders first trained in Chingford in 1919, making it the ‘spiritual home’ for troops worldwide.

The TSA has its headquarters in Gilwell Park, which regularly plays host to national scout events.

In an exhibition space, the story of founder Robert Baden-Powell is being brought to life, while there is also a climate controlled archive store, a new cafe and shop.

Architects hope the museum will as a “beacon to guide visitors along a new heritage trail through the site”.

Lead architect at Tate Harmer, Jerry Tate said: “The concept is to provide a space for celebration. A place rooted in scouting history, which also looks towards its future.

“The new Camp Square will be at the beating heart of Gilwell Park and the scouting movement.

“It will reflect the energy and diversity of scouting in the 21st century.”