SUPPORTERS were jubilant when plans for a new village shop and cafe for Blockley were approved.

The shop had been recommended for refusal, but the coachload of campaigners, waving placards to picket Cotswold District Council's planning committee meeting were determined to see it approved by councillors.

And as the planning officers' recommendations for refusal was overturned, it was branded a "victory for localism".

Blockley Co-operative Association had the support of 612 residents and 23 village organisations including the parish council, heritage society, WI and sports and social centre, as well as Cotswolds MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown. They all said the thriving enterprise was vital to keep the village alive.

The passionate debate hinged on the proposed community-owned store's controversial design and materials.

Planning officers and members feared the timber and glazed glass building, with pitched roof, would harm the heart of Blockley Conservation Area and its height would block views of the Grade 2* St Peter and St Paul church.

BCA must quit the current Old Coach House base as the lease expires in 2013. It wanted to demolish district council-owned loos in the central square to re-locate with the purpose-built business.

District councillor Barry Dare (C, Blockley) said: "If we genuinely believe in localism and democracy we ought to respond positively to the overwhelming support of the majority of Blockley residents. I urge you to look after the next generation of Blockley and not allow it to wither and die on the vine."

But councillor Lee Searles (LD, Cirencester-Park) said: "If this was for any other use and there wasn't such a level of support I think it would be pretty clear we would refuse it.

"It's an unsympathetic design built in a very sensitive area."

Colleague Margaret Rickman (LD, Cirencester-Chesterton) said: "We have to protect the Cotswolds as well as the viability of villages."

Councillor Sue Jepson (C, Campden-Vale) said: "There's so much support for this shop and it's such a vital part of the village."

She proposed delegated approval subject to a change of materials, which would be signed off by planning officers, Blockley district councillor Barry Dare and the planning committee chairman.

After the decision, shop manager Chris Grimes said: "It's a fantastic victory for localism, local people and common sense." The award-winning shop can now go-ahead to expand its goods and services, including post office services.