PLANS for a 40-bedroom hotel in Blackburn have been approved tonight despite concerns about traffic gridlock in Haslingden Road.

Marston's Inns and Taverns submitted the proposal for a two-storey hotel on land between Haslingden Road and Fishmoor Reservoir.

Speaking at a planning meeting at Blackburn Town Hall, councillors expressed fears that the development would exacerbate traffic queues during rush hour periods.

But planning officials explained the use of the land as a hotel had already been approved in 2003, and councillors could not object on these grounds.

The hotel will link up with the next-door Willows Pub, which would provide food and drink for residents.