A DREAM of a hospice and respite centre for sick children in Huddersfield came a massive step nearer today.

Kirklees Council officials and charity fundraisers confirmed they have earmarked a site in the town for the centre.

And they vowed: "We want to make it a special place."

Kirklees land off Fell Greave Road, Brackenhall, has been identified as a possible venue for the centre, which would serve families across the Huddersfield and Halifax districts.

Kirklees officials have been working with the West Yorkshire Forget Me Not Trust to find land after the council turned down plans for a site at Outlane.

But now charity officials have to go through the long process of getting planning permission for the site and raising all the cash necessary to pay for the project.

But they are delighted with today's news.

Geoffrey Firth, chairman of the trustees, said; "We are delighted to hear that Kirklees are prepared to release this land for a respite centre and hospice.

"This means we can now go forward into planning for our dream of providing vital care for the young people of Huddersfield and Halifax.

"We want to provide a really special place. We want to involve everyone, health officials, doctors, parents and families, as well as local residents.

"I can assure local residents that we intend to provide a centre of beauty that will enhance the area and use as many environmentally-friendly features as possible."

Mr Firth said the appeal fund had now reached £1m.

Also, now that a site has been identified, applications can be made to potential funding organisations, including private businesses and the National Lottery.

The idea of a hospice was first mooted in Huddersfield more than a decade ago.

The Forget Me Not Trust was set up seven years ago and has captured the imagination of people in the area.

Trust officials believe the centre could help hundreds of families.

Their first aim is to provide an outreach facility so parents who care for their own children at home can be given vital care and help.

The second stage would be a respite centre, where seriously-ill children can stay in a seven-bed unit.

The final stage would be the hospice, for terminally-ill children.

Mr Firth said research showed that at least 280 families in Huddersfield and Halifax would benefit from the centre.

He also said very few children died in hospices. The Martin House Hospice at Boston Spa, near Wetherby, recorded just two deaths in the past 12 months.

Mr Firth added: "We already have £1m in donations and pledges. Now the hard work to secure all the funding we need can start.

"We could not do that without a site and we will work with the council to ensure we can move ahead in a proper fashion."

Kirklees officials looked at many sites throughout the area and identified the three-acre plot of land at Brackenhall as ideal.

They stressed, however, that a number of hurdles will have to be cleared - notably planning permission and agreement on terms of sale.

But the council has agreed in principle to release the site.

A meeting for people interested in the project is being planned for June 27.

Details can be obtained from the West Yorkshire Forget Me Not Trust on 01422 387382.