ACCRINGTON Stanley have been refused permission to keep their controversial security control room.

The temporary structure, used by police on match days and described as an “eyesore” by residents, is essential for the club’s safety certificate under Football League requirements.

Hyndburn Borough Council’s Planning Committee said the temporary planning permission would not be renewed a fourth time in three years, as the club had had ‘ample time to provide a permanent structure’.

However, fears yesterday that the decision would lead to the club’s relegation were dismissed by council leader Peter Britcliffe, who said an appeal against the refusal would see Stanley through the season.

And, though councillors also voted to support enforcement action in pulling the structure down, it is thought that this would also be postponed by any appeal.

Effectively the planning committee’s decision is believed to be aimed at galvanising the club into action to create a permanent structure after repeated calls from residents.

At the planning committee, Coun Clare Pritchard put aside her right to vote to represent residents instead.

She said: “They are not here today because they have been here so many time before, in vain.

“They have had three years of misery since we granted 12 months temporary permission in 2006. We have always been unwilling to enforce anything.

“I have nothing against the club but if it was any other business we would not hesitate.”

Coun Brian Walmsley said: “I was prepared to give them a second chance before the meeting but I’d no idea they’d been given so many already.

“I think enough is enough.”

Chairman of the committee Coun John Griffiths said: “It’s difficult to refuse as they are ambassadors for the town but they seem to be taking advantage of their position.”

After the meeting, Coun Britcliffe said: “I haven’t been privy to their discussions but it seems the planning committee have had enough.

“It has been at least two years since I asked them to give the club more time, but as any football club knows, extra time doesn’t last forever.”

The club’s chief executive Rob Heyes has pledged to re-develop the area and provide a permanent control room within the current season.

He said: “We are a company like any other and we don’t want special treatment.

“We are currently looking to redevelop that whole section.”