A CONTROVERSIAL scheme to build a sports facility at an Accrington school has been given the go-ahead.

But opponents of the scheme to build a running track and sports pavilion at Moorhead High School say they continue to fight it all the way -- even in the courts if necessary.

Keith Pilkington, of the residents' group opposing the scheme said they now planned to appeal to John Prescott, secretary of state for the department of the environment, transport and the regions, and would also oppose the lottery bid for funding for the scheme.

The plans include an extended sports hall, office, reception and licensed bar as well as an eight lane floodlit running track as well as floodlit five-a-side football pitches and extra car parking to accommodate users of the facility.

Supporting the proposal at a special meeting of Lancashire County Council's development control sub committee, County Councillor George Slynn said the scheme had had more consultation than most with nine months-worth of wrangling about the sports facility.

He said: "There is no doubt we are in a position to minimise the inconvenience to local residents. It is generally accepted by everyone that all areas are entitled to adequate schooling and health and I believe the youth and people of Hyndburn are entitled to a recreation area like everyone else." But County Coun Chris Holtom opposed the current plans, saying the scheme would cause greater difficulties for traffic with the new entrance planned for Queens Road West.

And Keith Pilkington said residents' opposition to the scheme was "growing all the time." They are against the scheme on the grounds it would increase traffic, noise and there would be problems with floodlights.

He said: "We are not against sports facilities, but it's in the wrong place. It's a small playing field at the moment, and there is already a sports centre a mile away with all-weather pitches, which are under-utilised."

But Norman Mitchell, of Hyndburn Athletic Club, which is part of the group now bidding for lottery funding to start the development, said the area needed better facilities as many athletes had to leave the area as they advanced in their sport.

He said: "I am pleased that this has gone through but, obviously, the residents observations have to be taken into account."