A PLAN to build a 51-berth marina on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal has been put on hold so councillors can see the proposed site for themselves.

The outline scheme to create the marina and improve access to the site behind West Craven High School, Barnoldswick, was recommended for refusal by Pendle Council's West Craven area committee.

But the committee agreed to defer its decision for a site visit.

Planners are worried the marina would create a sprawl of development into unspoilt countryside and affect nature conservation.

Planning officer Janet Filbin said: "The scheme would cause widespread harm to the openness and character of the countryside."

An alternative scheme to create a 60-berth marina had been approved but the proposed site was less conspicuous than the current application.