A Southampton gas station owner whose son was paralysed after a diving accident in July, 2004 has been granted permission to add a second storey to his station so his son can work there.

The Development Applications Board (DAB) last week approved an application to install a second storey and elevator at Raynors? Shell Service Station on Middle Road in Southampton. This will be the first renovations to the building since 1958.

In granting approval, the DAB was at pains to note the approval was due to the Raynor family?s personal circumstances and the constrained size of the site, adding: ?The approval does not indicate that the Board is supportive of second storeys for other service stations.?

Station owner Reginald Raynor said he wanted a second floor on his garage to provide a job for 19-year-old Matthew.

?He was the main purpose, the whole plan changed to accommodate him,? Mr. Raynor said.

?I am trying to get a job for him while he is recuperating so he can be kept busy in the office up top.?

Although still confined to a wheelchair, he said his son is making slow progress and could monitor security cameras full time.

?He is moving his legs now more than ever before,? his father said this week.

?Hopefully he will be able to walk, but it will be a very long process.

?I have to thank everyone for all their prayers and ask for their continued prayers.

?He can move his hands but does not have full use of his fingertips.?

His father said Mathew was in a freak accident and broke his neck.

?He dove into the water but the water was receding and he hit the sand with his head,? he said.

?We?ve got things mapped out for him.?