LEYLAND'S Runshaw College has called a meeting to stave of mounting criticism from neighbours.

Teachers and governors at the Leyland college have vowed to consult local residents in the college's future plans.

Mounting complaints over the years about cars and buses blocking Langdale Road causing congestion on Worden estate as well as criticism over plans to build more classrooms sparked off the meeting on Wednesday evening.

But the college hopes to provide extra car parks, move the centre of the college away from houses, and build new catering and sports facilities.

In 1992 councillors met with the school to discuss the college's expansion but plans have only just been drawn up and will go before councillors on April 17.

Jim Smith, of Runshaw College, said they wanted to be better neighbours.

He said: "Environmental concerns are also at the top of the agenda. We hope to make the new classrooms more energy efficient and blend them into the countryside.

"We're exploring all the options and above all we want to hear the views of the residents."

South Ribble councillor Jeff Knowles said: "Runshaw College is trying to ratify what they stated four years ago. I am very pleased they're addressing the residents concerns and I think the meeting is a great idea to thrash out any differences."

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