PLANS to demolish a library and replace it with student accommodation in the shadow of a World Heritage site has been endorsed by councillors.

St John’s College of Durham University hopes to begin work soon on the development off Durham’s South Bailey, where accommodation will be provided for 66 students.

Durham county councillors were told the site was of the "utmost sensitivity" in heritage and landscape terms as it was within the setting of the Castle and Cathedral World Heritage setting, as well as in a conservation area.

The plans include the demolition of a 20th century library building - a single story brick building at right angles to the frontage buildings.

It will be replaced by a two-and-a-half-storey building while a second accommodation block will be built on the south of the site.

Principal planning officer Allan Simpson, who recommended approval, said: "The application is part of an ongoing strategy by St John’s College to consolidate their student accommodation on the Bailey and rationalise accommodation.

"It will be built in a modern style of architecture that befits its role, yet totally respects the historic setting of the existing buildings and the world heritage site. It has been carefully designed so as not to impose on the nature of the setting."

The area planning committee, meeting in Easington, was told the plans had been endorsed by English Nature, Natural England and the City of Durham Trust.

The committee approved the plans and was "minded to agree" to Listed Building Consent, which has to be referred to the Government Office for the North East for final approval.

St John’s College principal David Wilkinson said: "This is a significant development for the college and university.

"We are delighted the work has been done very carefully in all of the constraints and challenges of working in such a sensitive area."

Work is expected to begin in the summer and the project is expected to completed in time for the 2012 intake of students.