SCHOOLCHILDREN are among thousands of Pendle residents set to become green-fingered experts if plans for a floral heritage centre get the go-ahead.

Environmental groups in the borough have joined forces to create the pioneering project at Hodge House allotments, off Reedyford Road, Nelson, which would see classes of up to 30 children learning about wildlife and plants.

The scheme, which would benefit a range of community groups and individuals, includes a tree nursery and an environmentally-friendly building housing teaching and activity facilities, a cafe, an office, and exhibition space.

Plans for the project have now been submitted to Pendle Council by Pendle Environmental Network.

According to agents Leeds Environmental Design Associates Ltd, the project would be a boost for the community, and use a site which has been plagued by fly-tipping.

The feasibility report says: "The facilities offered are potential benefits to the community in providing training, education and leisure opportunities, and an addition to the physical fabric of the area. It will raise perceptions and pride in the area by making a statement about people's ability to regenerate their own community."

The building would use carbon neutral heating and hot water systems using bio mass fuel, and local materials and fuels will be used as much as possible.

Windows and rooflights have been designed to maximise the use of daylight to cut down the use of artifical lights, which will be controlled by daylight and movement sensors. The rooms would also be designed to encourage natural ventilation flows.

Hodge House allotments are used by a range of community groups, including GardenAble - a project for adults with learning difficulties - and last year hosted a Green Fair with nearby Holy Saviour Primary School to encourage people to be more environmentally-friendly.