A MODERN community centre is to be built in Cowling, where Royd Mill currently stands.

Plans to demolish the mill complex and construct the centre were given the go-ahead by Craven District Council on Tuesday, despite officers recommending refusal of the plans.

Councillors decided that the need for the community centre in the village, and in South Craven as a whole, outweighed arguments that the mill should be retained.

County councillor Irene Greaves speaking on behalf of the parish council, said: "This development would actually make the heart of the village and draw together all the societies in this young and active village."

She added that it would also help to solve some of the car parking problems in Cowling.

Cowling Community Project Group, spearheaded by Coun Greaves, submitted a petition of over 300 signatures in support of the community centre and 30 letters from parish councils, community groups, MP David Curry and representatives of local authorities.

One letter read: "Cowling is a large village with few amenities for residents and the new village hall could be a focus for Cowling and the outlying villages and farms."

However there was significant opposition, with objectors claiming the plans were "too ambitious and too costly".

Another letter read: "The project is far too elaborate for a village hall."

The Royd mill site has been vacant for nearly a year and lies in the centre of the village.

Coun Philip Barrett said that he supported the application. "Royd Mill is clearly unsuitable for any conversion. If we do not support this application, it is a missed opportunity."

Coun David Ireton agreed, saying that it was a wonderful opportunity to purchase a historic building and move into the 21st century.

There were doubts expressed by Coun Bill York. He said: "My only problem is that it is in the middle of a conservation area and I don't think that it is appropriate."

Coun Steve Place said: "South Craven is experiencing a rise in juvenile crime and vandalism. Something like this, giving a feeling of identity and pride, will go some way to help."

Coun Greaves, speaking after the meeting, said she was delighted the plans were passed.

She said the next stage was to raise the £1.6 million needed to complete the project. The committee is currently putting together a National Lottery bid.

She added that the scheme could take four years to complete.