PLANS for a 90-berth marina have passed their first hurdle.

Barden Mill in Barden Lane, Burnley, has applied to both Burnley and Pendle councils for permission to build the marina.

Planning permission was granted last night by Pendle Council but as the land falls in both Burnley and Pendle, Burnley council still needs to grant permission before the marina will get the final go-ahead.

A spokesman for Burnley council said: "As the majority of the land falls on the Pendle side the main decision will be made by Pendle Council.

"Burnley council is only responsible for planning permission for the access road from Barden Lane and the junction with Barden Lane.

"The application is not going to committee stage at Burnley council, and we are waiting to see what has happened at Pendle council before our decision is made.

"Our decision will be made in the next few weeks. At the moment it looks set to go ahead as we've had no objections from residents."

Pendle Council has granted permission but has imposed conditions that must be stuck to.

A report into the planning application said that plans for the marina are supported by British Waterways and that the only concerns from local residents were about a possible increase in traffic levels.

But councillors have imposed a Business Travel Plan to try and ensure congestion will not be a problem.

A report prepared for the committee said: "Reedley Hallows Parish Council supports the proposal to rejuvenate this section of the canal and its likely benefits to tourism initiatives in the borough."

The 26-acre site would serve narrow boats from the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

There would also be facilities for visitors to use, including a small tea room, shower room with toilets and a shop.

Some 15,000 trees and shrubs are also due to be planned to enclose the area from the wind.

If approved, Barden Mill bosses are aiming to start work in the new year and aim for the project to be completed by August.

Gordon Birtwistle, leader of Burnley Council, has previously supported the marina saying that it would benefit tourism in the area and boost jobs.