A £300,000 refurbishment of Putney's Ashlone Wharf is expected to be completed by July after planning chiefs gave it the go-ahead last week.

Until last year the future of the building had hung in the balance amid fears the council planned to demolish it to make way for luxury homes.

The ongoing lease of part of the premises to Chas Newens Marine Company - which provides the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race launches - was in particular doubt, but its future and that of the Sea Cadets and Wandsworth Youth River Club, which also lease the building, is now safe.

The planning application followed extensive consultation with all three users and the main work to be completed is essential structural repairs to the dilapidated building - constructed in 1850.

The work, due to start in January, will include the repair and cleaning of the brickwork, new velux windows in the roof slopes and new slate coverings for all roof areas.

New access arrangements are also planned for both ends of the building.

Council leader Councillor Edward Lister said now the changes had cleared the planning hurdle he was keen to see work get underway: "The council is committed to protecting the unique character of Putney Embankment and encouraging increased use of the river.

"We are all looking forward to the start of this exciting refurbishment project which will provide a major boost for river-based activities in the area."

The council is funding the scheme which is expected to cost more than £300,000. The works will also include extensive repairs to underground drainage which has in the past caused flooding at the premises.

Chairman of Wandsworth Sea Cadets Mrs Muriel Huxley MBE also welcomed the news: "It's going to be very nice when they have finished. The new roof and other improvements will make it a much warmer and more comfortable place for us.

"The old place had a character of its own but these improvements will make a big difference."

November 23, 2001 10:30