REEDLEY Marina could almost double in capacity after plans were submitted for a major extension.

The 90-berth marina opened in 2008 and has become a big attraction for narrowboats.

Bosses said it had been such a success that more capacity was needed, and now a ‘second phase’ of the scheme has been unveiled.

It would see a new 76-berth marina built on vacant land next to the current site on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.

More than 40 new car parking spaces would also be added, as well as two new buildings, of 220 and 54 square metres.

The plans have come from Jason Fyldes, the director of the marina in Barden Lane, on the Burnley and Pendle border, and they have won the approval of British Waterways, the quango that controls the canal.

A statement by Reedley Marina’s planning agent, Blacko-based Crosby and Co, said: “This application follows the success of the existing marina and increased demand for moorings from visitors to the area.”

The company said the low-lying buildings would be at canal level and not have a negative impact on the views from the scene.

The new development would be an ‘essential tourism and leisure facility’ which would be appropriate for the green belt, it said.

In his response to the proposals, Carl West, technical manager of British Waterways, said the landscaping included in the scheme could enhance the appearance of the site.

He judged it ‘acceptable’ so the proposals can now move to a more detailed design and construction phase.

It will be considered by Pendle Borough Council’s planning committee in the New Year.

Reedley Marina is home to a number of waterside busi-nesses offering leisure trips and selling boats and equipment.