A new £100,000 library in memory of a popular headmistress was today one step closer to being built.

Planning project - headteacher Dominic Carver and PTA chairman Cheryl Ellis with the library plans Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

South Benfleet Primary school has finally applied for planning permission from Castle Point Council to build their memorial library after a year of fund-raising efforts.

The project was inspired by Cyndy Batty, the school's former headteacher of 18 years, who died unexpectedly almost 18-months ago of amaloisoisis - a blood disorder which prevents organs working properly.

Miss Batty, 54, died just six weeks after becoming terminally ill and passed away at St Luke's Hospice in Basildon last August.

If proposals get the thumbs-up, work is expected to start within the next few months. The scheme includes building a separate access route to the library at the school in High Road, Benfleet.

Published Tuesday January 6, 2004

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