AN animal charity has been given planning permission to keep two temporary marquees which, it says, are central to its important work.

The application, from bosses at the RSPCA Southridge rescue centre in South Mimms, was approved by borough councillors at a planning meeting held in Potters Bar.

At the hearing, members learned that two tents, one for dog training and one serving as an extension to the reception area, had been erected at the centre in Packhorse Lane.

They were also told how the training marquee served a key role in helping the RSPCA re-home unwanted dogs.

After weighing up the application, councillors decided to grant planning permission, due to the “very special circumstances” that had been presented by the charity.

Terry Pavey, the chairman of the Friends of RSPCA Southridge, welcomed the news.

He told the Potters Bar Edition: “We are absolutely delighted and thank the council for their decision.

“It means that we can carry on doing our vital work.”