A NEW sports hall at Accrington and Rossendale College is set to be given the green light, despite several objections.

Councillors discussing the plans had delayed their decision until visiting the site, in Broad Oak Road, Accrington.

But at a meeting later today, planning officers will again recommend the 36m by 22m sports hall is approved.

In a report, chief planning officer Simon Prideaux said although the hall would be built in an area classed as countryside, the development was consistent with the rest of the college.

An independent assessment was also carried out after locals said they were concerned about the impact the development would have on traffic and parking.

Mr Prideaux wrote: “The proposed development is supported by both national and local policies that encourage developments for new education facilities, and facilities to improve the health and well-being of the community.”