A CRICKET club more than 100 years old is set to expand.

Earlier this year, plans were lodged with Blackburn with Darwen Council proposing an extension at Edgworth Cricket Club, which was founded in 1902.

And now council planning officer Nick Blackledge has granted permission for the development to go ahead.

He said: “The cricket club has a defined role in the village community in providing facilities for young and older people throughout the year.

“Weight has been attached in this assessment to the positive role of it has within the community and the need for it to respond to the demands of the Greater Manchester Cricket League in meeting current regulatory requirements relative to the provision of enhanced facilities.

“Accordingly, the proposal is considered to comply with the requirements of the Development Plan."

Edgworth Cricket and Recreation Club is a community led village not-for-profit sports and social club which promotes sport and recreation for all the village and visitors.

The field is also used by Turton High School and Edgworth Primary School for cricket games and other activities. The old changing rooms will be knocked down and a two storey extension to the existing facility will be built in its place.

On the extended ground floor there will be a new lounge area for players where teas, junior theory coaching and lessons can be held as well as committee meetings.

Outside of the cricket requirement, this room would also be available for social members when the main room is occupied.