MEMBERS of one of London's largest Anglican churches are celebrating after winning their six-year battle to begin a multi-million pound redevelopment scheme.

A £3 million proposal to upgrade facilities at All Saints, in Woodford Green, was turned down by Regional Planning Committee West in June, despite the project being backed by the council's own planning officers.

But the 600-strong congregation appealed against the decision to the planning inspectorate, and have finally been given the green light to start raising the cash they needs to begin work at the site.

The scheme will see the Grade II listed church joined to its hall for the first time via an eyecatching glass and steel ‘link’ building, which would also serve as a resource centre.

The work will also involve the construction of a new annexe attached to the hall, which will feature a function room and a wide range of other community facilities.

Rev Paul Harcourt, who has helped lead the project, said he hopes work will get under way in July next year.

He said: "We are all delighted to finally be able to get going with the project.

"The new centre will play a vital role in helping the church to connect with the wider community - particularly the young, disabled people and the elderly.

"We have a growing congregation and we have needed to create more room on the site for years.

Rev Harcourt said the new buildings would make using the site more comfortable and pleasurable for churchgoers - some of whom have had to use a mobile cabin for meetings in the past .

He said: "We have worked hard to ensure the plans are in keeping with the surrounding conservation area.

"As part of our fundraising we will be aiming to make around £150,000 for various projects in developing countries, and to donate £35,000 to Haven House Children's Hospice.

"I'd like to thank Councillor Linda Huggett for supporting us at the appeal."