CAMPAIGNERS against plans to transform the sports hall of a leisure complex have celebrated after the council announced a U-turn.

Existing users of the sports hall at Pendle Leisure Centre had strongly opposed the proposals, including badminton players who raised a large petition.

But councillors voted not to approve the refurbishment at an executive meeting recently.

This means the proposed changes, which included the creation of a children’s soft play area, will not take place for the time being at least.

Pendle councillor Paul White said it is clear from the 'public outcry' that the proposal was not what the people of Pendle wanted.

"It's right those concerns have been listened to," he said.

Fellow Pendle councillor Sarah Cockburn-Price, who campaigned against the proposals, said: “I have been contacted by many residents upset about the (potential) loss of the town’s sports hall.

"I thank them for being part of the fight, despite it being apparently a 'done deal'.

"I hope that Pendle Council will now take time to sensibly evaluate a range of options for the leisure centre and pick the package which both is the best fit for residents and generates an income.”

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal, leader of Pendle Council, said: “Although the results of the consultation were marginally in favour of the scheme, we listened to people’s comments and we will not be going ahead with any changes to the Leisure Centre at this stage.

“Thank you to everyone who took part in the consultation.

“The future use and facilities provided at the Leisure Centre will be part of a wider review of all sports and leisure facilities, provided by the Council and other organisations across Pendle, in spring.

“There will be extensive consultation with the public as part of this.”

The council’s executive also voted not to provide a loan of £500,000 for Pendle Leisure Trust to carry out the proposed changes.

Around 800 people took part in a public consultation, with the proposals supported by 55-45 per cent.