AMBITIOUS plans to build a historic transport museum in Slaithwaite have been dealt a blow.

Backers have already spent £20,000 on preparations after a promise they could buy the former highways depot land at Bridge Street.

But local councillors are now urging that the site is sold to a nearby firm for parking.

Their recommendation has angered Huddersfield and District Transport Group which is hoping to turn its collection of vintage buses and coaches into a major tourism attraction.

Businessman Mel Munday, a member of the group, said: "We feel dreadfully let down.

"We were told more than two years ago we could have the site, but they've strung us along without finalising the deal.

"It would be a disaster if we can't buy the land as we've already spent a lot of money on security and other preparations."

The recommendation to sell the land for parking has been made by Kirklees Council's Colne Valley area committee.

The council's ruling Cabinet will have the final say on the future of the site.

Mr Munday, who runs Munden's Removals and Huddersfield town centre model shop Something Wicked, said the transport group wanted a museum with a 1950s themed canteen, gift shop, a picnic area along the river bank and a small wildlife sanctuary.

Mike Motley, development surveyor who has been overseeing the possible sale of the land, said: "Ultimately the decision will be taken by the council Cabinet, but the views of the area committee will be taken into consideration."