PLANS to extend a village nursery have been given the go-ahead by councillors.

Blackburn with Darwen Council planning committee has approved the scheme for a rear the rear single-storey extension with conditions.

Thi is despite a previous refusal and four objections from neighbours.

The Stepping Stones Children’s Nursery at Mondeor in Hoddlesden, which has been running since 1994, told the council the addition would increase its capacity from 26 to 34.

It said the expansion was needed to keep government funding support to pay for the extension.

The committee imposed a limit on the number of children accommodated on the premises at any one time of 34.

It also restricted the use of the building to 7.30am to 6pm.

Applicant Mrs Julie Mercer told the councillors: “The nursery currently runs at full capacity.

“The current accommodation dictates that children would not be able to take advantage of the maximum fee 30 hours free are they are eligible for.”

East Rural councillor supported the objections from neighbours on grounds of noise, nuisance and road safety.