MULTI-MILLION pounds plans to create two new primary schools in Burnley have met with objections following lengthy public consultation, Lancashire education chiefs have been told.

A £2.45million scheme to replace Rosehill infants, junior, nursery schools and Healey Wood infant school with one purpose-built learning centre brought protests from people who believe the nursery school should be kept separate, says a report to Tuesday's education executive committee.

And a £2million plan to replace Myrtle Bank infant and nursery, Hargher Clough junior and Coal Clough primary schools with a new community school drew objections that the preferred site at Cherry Fold playing fields, next to St Hilda's RC High, was too far outside the core catchment area.

On Rosehill, officers say, however, that the amalgamation of nursery and primary in a new building offered a greater opportunities than continuing with separate provision.

They say that in an area with a substantial problem of unfilled nursery places, money would be saved by reducing nursery provision.

They add that the existing nursery school contained asbestos and had many shortcomings.

On Cherry Fold, officers say the site is "the only realistic option" which could be delivered within a reasonable timescale.

They add that objections only relate to the siting of the new building and no objections had been raised by Burnley Council. Officers say they studied alternative sites and Cherry Fold was most suitable.

They add that if the proposal is approved, the education authority would work towards minimising any problems and disruption.

The plans will now go to the county School Organisation Committee for final decision over the next two months.