AN historic building is set to be transformed into a new headquarters for voluntary sector organisations.

Ripon Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) is planning to convert part of the city's Sharow View into a new centre and the idea has been backed by North Yorkshire County Council.

The authority, which owns the property, has agreed to the principle of using the building for a community house and more detailed plans are now expected to be drawn up.

The CVS project has also received support from the Ripon City Partnership, which has promised to part fund the work.

North Yorkshire's executive member for social services, Shelagh Marshall, said: "We are delighted to be able to support this scheme. It will provide much needed office space and meeting rooms under one roof for a wide range of organisations in the Ripon area. This reflects the diversity and sheer volume of activity among the voluntary sector locally.

"The county council believes this will be an excellent use of this part of the Sharow View site, and we hope that the CVS will be able to finalise their plans over the next few months."

Executive officer of the Ripon CVS, Lynette Barnes, said: "We are all very excited about the scheme. It is a wonderful opportunity and we are looking forward to getting it going.

"This is a much needed facility and we are greatly encouraged by the county council's help and support."