A PLAN to build up to 100 homes at a former football club has been hailed as bringing 'vibrancy to a problem area'.

The application for the old Rossendale United ground in Dark Lane, Newchurch, was passed by the borough council and will see the stands and derelict buildings demolished.

The applicant, Nick Kennedy at Culzean Developments, which is based in the village, has also agreed to pay £130,755 towards new sports pitches at Marl Pits Leisure Centre in Rawtenstall to make up for the loss.

Cllr Andy MacNae, who represents the area, said he is pleased the plans were passed this week.

He said: "The work addresses a problem area.

"The old football club and old facilities are in ruin and they're not good for anyone. The new homes will bring a vibrancy to the area.

"Of course the money the plans provide for new pitches in Marl Pits is also a good thing, it's good news all round."

Rossendale United FC, which competed in the North West Counties League, was dissolved in 2011 after suffering financial problems and the site has not been used since.

The main stand was also subject to an arson attack in January 2012.

Plans had previously been submitted for 50 homes to be constructed on the site in 2012, but they were later withdrawn.

Ron Ashworth, who was involved with a supporters association group which objected to work at the ground, said the approval was the right thing.

He said: "It's difficult to see how the site could revert to being a playing area, which is a very sad situation.

"The facilities at Marl Pits can be a help and develop a site for sports, which is satisfactory.

"The developers have talked to Sports England and if they approve then I'm happy enough."

A spokesman for Sport England said the money that will be spent on new playing fields at Marl Pits will be a welcome development.

He said: "When we were consulted on this planning application, we said we wanted the developer to fund a new playing field at Marl Pits, so that the community benefits from the development.

"We welcome the fact that this has been agreed and are looking forward to seeing these new facilities created.”

A total of 94 three-bedroom and six two-bedroom properties will now be built.

Culzean Developments was unavailable for comment.