RESIDENTS who oppose controversial plans to redevelop Darwen's leisure centre have decided against pursuing a judicial review.

Campaigners said the legal action would have delayed the development, which was not in the long-term interests of the town.

Plans for the new £9million leisure facility have caused a storm of controversy among many residents because the facilities will be split across two sites.

In August, councillors approved proposals for a new leisure centre, with an Olympic-size pool, gym and aerobics studio.

But the sports hall would be built two miles away at Darwen Vale High School.

This has led to concerns that leisure centre users faced frustrating journeys mid workout to use all the facilities.

Public meetings have been held on the issue, with hundreds of residents turning out to speak against the plans.

But the campaigners have dropped their bid to take legal action and force a judicial review.

Bill Stemp, who was involved in the campaign, said: "I feel that a judicial review would be successful in delaying proceedings, but that would be of no benefit to the long-term future of leisure in Darwen.

"I am all for investment in the area but money should be spent wisely, and all people concerned must be thoroughly consulted."

Another campaigner, swimming coach George Hill, said: "Our aim was not to stir things up' but to open up a frank, honest and open public debate about the split-site decision.

"This I believe, we have achieved.

"I feel the vast majority of Darwen residents agreed with the wisdom of our group's objection to the loss of the sports hall on the Green Street site.

"However, I am now convinced that a judicial review would not be in the community's medium or long-term best interests."

Another public meeting is at 6.30pm today at Darwen Leisure Centre over the plans.

This is being staged for the people who could not get into last week's packed meeting.