PLANS to create a £1.2million canoe centre in Padiham moved a step closer after councillors agreed to contribute £10,000 to the cost of the scheme.

Padiham Weir, on the River Calder behind the new Shuttleworth Industrial Park, could be transformed into a regional canoe centre if the plans go ahead.

It is hoped some of the funding will be met by a Lottery Grant with the rest through other funding.

So far, organisers have raised about £600,000 through £150,000 European funding, £150,000 from the Lancashire Environment Fund, £105,000 from the Environment Agency and £150,000 from the Mersey Basin Campaign.

At a meeting last month between Lottery officers, Regional Sport England and the British Canoe Union, Sport Lottery advised that the application would have more chance of success if the council made a contribution. As a result, the executive committee agreed to contribute £10,000.

Mick Cartledge, director of community and leisure services, said: "The council is keen to see the canoe centre become a reality. It will create a sporting facility of regional importance in the borough and this funding further demonstrates the council's commitment."

Other supporters of the scheme include the British Canoe Union North West and Partnership Canoe Club -- which includes Burnley, Pendle, Clitheroe and Ribble Valley. Councillor Steve Wolski said: "This will be a major facility, not only for Padiham and Burnley, but also for the region as a whole."

The council's contribution of £10,000 has not, however, been given unanimous support. Councillor Peter Kenyon, executive member for best value and resources, said: "It would be a blow if this did not go ahead, but I am unhappy that Opportunities Fund has been raided to find the £10,000."