PLANS for a £2m primary school in a County Durham village have been given the go-ahead.

County councillors yesterday approved the replacement of Catchgate Primary School, in Blackett Street, near Stanley.

The existing school will be demolished when the new school, to be built on playing fields south of the present building, is completed.

A swimming pool will be kept as part of the development and two pitches will be upgraded.

Vehicle access from Blackett Street and car parking will be provided just north of the school building.

A drop-off point will be provided for children from other schools using the pool.

Parking restrictions already in force will be retained, but a bus stop near the proposed access may have to be relocated.

Derwentside District Council and residents living nearby offered no objections.

Sport England also raised no objections, provided sports facilities and the retained pitches are made available to the community and are up to standard.

John Suckling, head of planning at Durham County Council, said: "It is intended that pitches and school changing facilities would become available for greater community use outside school hours by agreement."

Several bungalows will be close to the edge of the school, where the hard play areas will be built, and planners expect noise from the children during playtimes.

Mr Suckling said there would be some change of views for those overlooking the site, but no direct impact.

Mr Suckling added: "Demolition of the existing school building, which comes within 13 to 20 metres of some properties, will also improve the outlook and amenity for some residents."

Members of the planning committee passed the plans subject to certain conditions