HYNDBURN Council has voted against the motion to review its decision to look into Highams Playing Fields becoming a Community Sports Hub.

A feasibility study is being carried out by Accrington Stanley Community Trust over the possibility of a £2million facility being built at the site.

However Cllr Malcolm Pritchard, who has set up a petition with more than 250 signatures against the plans, raised the motion for the plans to be reconsidered.

Cllr Pritchard, who represents the Milnshaw ward where the proposed site is, said: “There are a lot more places in Hyndburn where we could be putting this.

"The majority of councillors welcome the thought of the investment into the area, while pointing out that it is only feasibility study at this stage, and no plans have been set in stone.

Cllr Gareth Molineux said: “The supporters trust are looking into the idea of £2m worth of investment in the area. That says future to me.

“This is just a feasibility study, but the children will be able to play safely on flood light pitches.”

Council leader Cllr Miles Parkinson said: “At this stage it is just a study to see if the site is appropriate.

“But if some wants to come to the council with investment we want to try and help them.”